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Navy News FEBRUARY 1992

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Rare titles: Somerset/Grafton/Sutherland

NEW DEAL THE three Duke class frigates to be built for the Royal Navy as a result of a newly-announced contract are to be named HM ships Somerset, Grafton and Sutherland.

A fixed-price contract for the three goes to Yarrow Shipbuilders on the Clyde, and construction of the first starts in the second half of this year.

Patrol ship purchase off the ice THE Government is to purchase HMS Polar Circle as permanent replacement for HMS Endurance as the Royal Navy's Antarctic patrol ship.

The Polar Circle, which will return to home waters in May on completion of this season's patrol, will retain that name for the rest of the deployment.

It is planned that the Admiralty Board will reach a decision on a permanent name by the time she returns to the UK. The 5,000-ton icebreaker replaces the 32year-old Endurance, whose programme she is undertaking, including working in support of the British Antarctic Survey and carrying out hydrographic and meteorological work.

For this Antarctic season the Polar Circle was chartered from the Norwegian Rieber Shipping Line, and a work package was carried out at Portsmouth before she sailed south.

Double blow!

L/Cpl Bugler Andy Travis borrows a stethoscope from his namesake to get the full benefit of Medical Technician Andy Travis's strictly amateur horn solo.

Confused? Her Majesty will be next time she sails in HMY Britannia, in which both are now serving.

Picture: LA(Phot) Dave Hunt.

As the contract with the shipbuilder represents less than half the total estimated cost of the frigates, the larger part is made up by the range of specialised equipment needed for the ships.

Some of these contracts have yet to be awarded but among those already known are: the ships' 4.5-inch gun will be ordered from VSEL; machinery control equipment from Vosper Thornycroft; and vertical launch Seawolf missiles from British Aerospace. The two Spey gas turbine engines for each ship will come from Rolls-Royce; main gearing from GEC; and diesel generators from Paxman Diesels. The shipbuilder will also have many sub-contractors.

The order — total value of which will approach £400 million — brings to 13 the number of Type 23 frigates ordered since 1984. Four are already in service and six more under construction.

Of the names chosen for the new ships only one has been used by the Royal Navy this century. This is Grafton, with eight previous ships of the name including a 7,350-ton cruiser (1892-1920); 1,335-ton destroyer sunk off Dunkirk in 1940; and 1954 Type 14 anti-submarine frigate which eventually went on the disposal list in the mid-70s.

Reference books show the only previous Somerset as a 3rd Rate dating from 1748, although there were two earlier 3rd Rates in the 18th century

named Somersett.

There have been two previous Sutherlands — both 18th century 4th Rates, one of them having originally been named Reserve.

Forced march for Centurion?

SOARING repair costs at HMS Centurion, the Royal Navy pay, records and drafting establishment at Gosport, have prompted a comprehensive survey to be undertaken regarding its future location.

Projected maintenance costs for the buildings, opened 22 years ago, are such that it may be more cost effective for Centurion to move elsewhere — St. George's Barracks and the Royal Clarence Yard, both in Gosport, have been mentioned as possible sites.

The professional survey is currently considering many options and a decision is expected early next month. Whatever the outcome, it is not expected that any redundancies will be imposed among the 650 service and civilian employees at the base.

Trouble by the Kilo...

FURTHER military expansion by Iran has given a new edge to the Royal Navy's presence in the Gulf, still facing a continuing threat from Iraq, Defence Secretary Tom King has warned. c o m m a n d i n g officer, Capt.

On a flying visit to HMS Chris Roddis, said underlined Sheffield (see also page 17), the need for maintaining the currently leading the Arpatrols. milla Patrol with HMS Birmingham and HMS Hermione, he said his whistleMines stop tour of the Allied Mines remained a threat and Middle Eastern states was all the ships kept a constant designed to look over the watch for them. There were still region's security arranges u n k e n ships and defensive ments. It would probably mines at the entrances lo Iraq's result in "significant continwaterways — but at the same uing contracts" for British time no trade was passing to defence equipments.

Iraq through the Gulf while There were reports that Russia may supply large numbers of tanks to Iran under deals signed four years ago — and Kilo Class diesel-electric submarines, which the Sheffield's

United Nations sanctions continued.

• Above: HMS Hermione on patrol in the Gulf — picture by PO(Phot) Stuart Antrobus.

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

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Helping Hands

In brief

Bikers clock up the pounds

A SERIES of events at HMS Collingwood ensured that a massive total was raised for Children in Need.

A 24-hour volleyball competition proved popular, while a "soak-a-sailor" stall gave ratings the opportunity to throw wet sponges and buckets of water at their senior officers.

Gunnery staff also came under fire when their wives turned up at Collingwood and paid for the honour of hosing them down.

Mrs. Maureen Walters, a civil servant working in the establishment, organised a raffle, penny jar and bucket collections and an "illegal" car parking system brought in money from fines which raised Collingwood's final total to £3,000.

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At the RN Caterers' Food Safety Symposium and annual dinner, held in the WOs' and SRs' Mess in HMS Raleigh, £524.50 was donated to the appeal.

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Pulling power TOOTH fairies, "drawn" from the dental department in WMKS Drake, took part hi a 12-hour sponsored triathlon using jogging and rowing machines and an exercise bike in the fitness centre.

The 24-strong team raised £650 for Children in Need and pictured at-

tempting to "row their boat ashore" are LW(DSA) Helen Rust, Lieut-Cdr. Janet Simon and POWRENJDHJ Maty Morris.

Picture: LA(Phot) A- White,

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The annual event provided an opportunity for the 50 midshipmen of Bristol University RN Unit to raise some money for charity and have fun at the same time.

An evening of sponsored events raised £400 and the cheque was presented to the BBC by Midshipmen Anthony Legge and Paul Gorman.

FACING THE AXE

LSTD Smudge Smith had a close shave when the executive officer at RN air station Yeovilton, Cdr. John Havill, wielded the cleaver to shave off his beard — and all for Children in Need.

The hair-raising experience was one of many events organised by the air station, which raised over £1,500.

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LEADING the way ahead for the RN Motorcycle Club's annual tour of the 17 naval and RM establishments throughout the country in aid Of Children in Need is CPO Dave Moore, riding a 1000cc Kawasaki GTR. Members of the club set off from HMS Sultan and visited the bases where leather-clad bikers rattled collecting tins under the noses of unsuspecting

sailors in establishments as far south as Culdrose and as far north as Prestwick.

All fuel for the long jour-

ney was provided free of charge by BP, Sport for Television provided three 1000cc Kawasaki GTRs, The Three Cross Motorcycle Club loaned a 1200cc Triumph Trophy and BMW a R80 GS and a R100 GS. The club attracted a great deal of publicity during the six-day tour and beat last year's total by raising £8,000. Rear-Admiral James Carine, the club's patron, later presented the money during the BBC's televised appeal.

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Training Divisions in HMS Raleigh were held in fancy dress in aid of the appeal and after paying a 50p fee all the trainees, their instructors and their Training Commander, Cdr. Adrian Johns, turned up out of uniform, raising over £250.

Dressed in full uniform parade staff from Raleigh also did their bit by running their assault course. The team, led by Lieut. Reg Bell and PO Johno Johns, raised over £400.

Due to lack of space some Helping Hands reports have been held over until next month.

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Sam salutes Ariadne RADIO One DJ Gary Davies and former Sun Page Three Girl, Samantha Fox, met HMS Ariadne when she berthed alongside HMS Belfast during a visit to London.

Gary Davies presented the final 20 minutes of his "Bit in the Middle" show on board the Ariadne as part of the Children in Need Appeal and commanding officer, Cdr. Les Sim, presented him with a cheque for £500 collected by the ship's company.

• Pictured with Sam and Gary are, from left, MEM(M) Gorby Micallef, ASA Tuck, MEM(M) Marmite Saul, RS Andy Belfitt,

RO Russ Beard, Sub.Lieut. Tom Lee and CY Steve Quinn; front, S(OPS)

Mac McKenzie, LSTD Sam Hart, RO Mick Briscoe and RO Andy Jenkinson.

MOD'S MONEY AFTER an hour's furious activity around the corridors of MOD Main Building Cdr. John Eldridge, Vicki Murray and Joan Witherspoon drew a bucket full of money — £272.43 in all — for the Children in Need Appeal.

"The short-notice plans are always the best," said Cdr. Eldridge. "It was a spur of the moment decision and we were pleasantly staggered at people's generosity!"

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brush up at Port Solent

GETTING right down to the bottom of the problem is Chief Diver Eddie Kerr who, along with 35 other clearance divers from the RN Diving School (MDT Department of SMOPS), volunteered to give the boats in Port Solent Marina a good scrub for Children in Need.

The team, led by Lieut.-Cdr. Phil Burrell, cleaned the hulls of 55 yachts and raised over £1,300.

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Anglo-French ship project takes shape

BRITAIN and France have agreed to carry out 18 months of exploratory work on a joint project for a future anti-air warfare frigate to enter service early in the next decade.

The new frigate would be equipped with anti-air missiles of the FAMS programme, and its task would be escorting m a r i t i m e forces in the Atlantic or elsewhere.

A number of difficult issues will need to be addressed during this phase of the work, but both countries recognise the potential benefits of co-operation through standardisation, rationalisation and inter-operatbility of equipment, the Commons was told.

A final decision on whether to develop the Anglo-French frigate is due to be taken in 1993.

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Greener Guzz Over 100 trees and shrubs have been planted throughout Devonport Naval Base as part of a scheme carried out with the charity Men of Trees.

OVER 1,000 bids for the latest batch of 200 surplus ships' bells — closing date was January 31 — have caused a headache for their custodian at Bath.

"These sales only happen once in a blue moon — but the response has been far stronger than for those previously recorded," said John Hitchings for DGST(N).

"This time when we advertised in Navy News it got picked up by the national Press, so there are going to be lots of disappointed people."

Many of the bells are engraved with the names of children christened on board.

Other personal considerations mean applicants are judged solely on merit — though many are prepared to offer more than their fixed prices, ranging from £1,200 down to

-?o.

i Left — Wren Writer Sharon Whittaker buffs up a selection of the bells kept in store at Portsmouth Naval Base.

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Comms pitch on Quorn HMS QUORN has become the first winner of the Minor War Vessels Flotilla Communications Trophy, the Redifon Salver, awarded for the first class results throughout a very busy operating period.

The Rosyth-based mine counter measures vessel has recently returned after serving with

Russia honours C A artist ARTIST Ian Fraser, an Arctic convoys veteran who painted at sea throughout his war service, now has his work displayed in the Moscow State Maritime Museum.

He was commissioned by Admiral Vladimir Mikhailin, the head of the R u s s i a n Veteran Naval Officers Club, to produce an impression of a convoy in action — and travelled to Moscow to present it, together with a goodwill message from First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Julian Oswald.

The reception at the museum was covered by Moscow State television and showed the former radio operator being decorated with four medals for his services in Northern Russia in 1941-43.

A YEAR on from the Gulf War the Royal Navy continues its presence in the area with the three ships of the Armilla Patrol — currently the destroyer HMS Birmingham and the frigates HMS Sheffield and Hermione — protecting British shipping and interests and helping to maintain United Nations' sanctions against Iraq.

Time ca//ed on the

H.M.S

Last of Leander refits HMS Andromeda, launched in 1967, is the last of the Leander class frigates to undergo refitting, the majority of her sister ships having paid

Gulf mines still a hazard

beffs

• A £2.5 million contract has been placed with YARD Ltd. to carry out a project definitiion study into the replacement for the assault ships HMS Fearless and Intrepid.

THE LAST ship to have been built at Portsmouth Dockyard has been rededicated there, following a 17-month, £25 million refit at Rosyth.

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

NATO's Standing Naval Force Channel in Northern European waters.

During this deployment HMS Quorn has taken the opportunity to maintain her liaison with Queen Alexandra's Royal Naval Nursing Service — the QARNNS — with visits from staff at RNH Haslar, and from Matron-in-Chief Jane Titley.

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mothball attack'

IF Taranto was the Fleet Air Arm's finest hour, the "Channel Dash" action of 50 years ago this month was no less heroic, even though it met with failure.

Indeed, when Lieut.-Cdr. Eugene Esmonde led six Swordfish of 825 Naval Air Squadron out of RAF Mansion to attack the battiecruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau and the cruiser Prinz Eugen, he knew his mission was suicidal.

Careful examination of tides, currents and weather forecasts decided the Germans that their powerful capital ships holed up in Brest had the best chance of a breakout through the Straits of Dover to their home ports on February 12.

The British had assumed they would try a night passage — which would have favoured the Swordfish, as at Taranto. As it turned out, it was daylight and the ships had already reached the crucial area before they were detected.

They had a huge escort of six destroyers, 15 torpedo boats and over 250 Luftwaffe fighters — and Esmonde led his attack into a dense wall of shellfire and cannonfire. All six Swordfish were shot down, none of them hit their targets and only five of the 18 naval aircrew survived.

Four of them will be guests at RAF Mansion on the anniversary this month together with members of the Esmonde family — he was awarded a posthumous VC for his role in the action — and later two Sea King helicopters of 707 Sqn will fly out to the RFA Olna to drop a wreath near the scene.

Best of all the tributes paid at the time came from Admiral Ciliax in the Scharnhorst, who wrote it had been "a mothball attack by a handful of ancient planes, piloted by men whose bravery surpassed any other action by either side that day."

• Scharnhorst during the epic "Channel Dash" through the Straits of Dover. Inset: Lieut.-Cdr Eugene Esmonde VC, DSO.

Whilst very few Iraqi vessels are sailing, mines in the Gulf waters still remain a hazard, and regular mine watches, with lookouts on the bows, are everyday features of life on board.

Close contact is maintained with the other allied navies operating in the Gulf and every opportunity taken to carry out exercises with them.

Ministerial tour Defence S e c r e t a r y Tom King, carrying out a tour of Oman, United Arab Emirates.

Saudia Arabia and Kuwait. making a brief visit to HMS Sheffield.

• A well-produced book "A Gulf Record" gives comprehensive coverage of the work of the Royal Navy Task Force 321.1 during the war.

Illustrated with many previously u n p u b l i s h e d photographs, it has been produced by Captain Toby Elliott, commanding HMS Brilliant during that period, as a souvenir for members of the Task Force.

A limited number of copies are available, priced at £6.95 (inc UK post.) from Maritime Books, Lodge Hill. Liskeard, Cornwall PL 14 4EL. All profits from the sale go to the King George Fund for Sailors.

cue off Start Point HMS IVESTON helped save a crippled freighter from the shipwreck black spot of the rocks off Start Point, where her engines broke down in a Force 10 gale.

The Ton Class mine countermeasures vessel put a cable across to the 1,600 ton coaster Janet C and used her powerful winch to pull her away from the rocks while the Salcombe lifeboat stood by.

Meanwhile a Sea King helicopter from the RN air station Culdrose hovered overhead, ready to hoist the seven-man crew to safety if the cables broke.

Later the Janet C, carrying a cargo of wheatmeal to Ireland, was towed into Torbay by the civilian tug Anglian Lady.

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

Counting the cost with your draft chit State of the rosters

You may have noticed that some Draft Orders nowadays have more detail on them than bank statements — this is largely due to the need to account more accurately for the Navy's manpower. Whether you are in a complement billet, on PJT, Career Course or whatever, the appropriate budget has to be charged, which Drafty does through the "PQ number" system — notice that each line of the draft order always has one of these numbers on it. It is particularly applicable to WE ratings, with their long PJT commitments involving several moves between establishments, or even within the same establishment, and the reason why several lines often appear on one draft order is simply to ensure that the correct budget receives the bill for your services.

As the financiers start to take charge, you could find yourself unceremoniously invited to vacate the establishment immediately on completion of your course, so as to pass your cost on to someone else as quickly as possible.

But do spare a thought for the extra workload this has placed on the Drafting desks. One well established Drafting Officer recalls with tears in his eyes the long forgotten days of handwritten draft chits, when life was so much easier . . .

Current roster waiting times are: to LWEM(O) 14 months to LWEM(R) Dry to POWEM(O) 16 months to POWEM(R) 11 months and for Artificer Candidate Course, waiting time is between 25-32 months from the end of Killicks course.

The lack of promotions in general service to CPOWEM(O) and CPOWEM(R) and nil selections for CCWEA at the Autumn Boards was in no way due to the quality of the candidates, but a reflection of the fact that with a falling manpower requirement, a much lower level of notice giving, and the early promotions of previous years, there were simply no vacancies on this occasion. Sad, but there is it.

Revenge is not so sweet smelling

Cutting back on PJTs Most WE sea billets require PJTs — ranging in length from a few days up to many months, and there are nearly 300 Collingwood and commercial courses to choose from. With a lead time of up to 15 months due to course dates, it's not surprising that it is sometimes impossible to programme in all the courses you need before joining.

Strenuous efforts are being made to whittle down the PJT requirement, but in the meantime Drafty continues to do his best to ensure that the major courses are undertaken, especially for the singleton maintainers in ships where they have no other experienced shoulder to cry on. This does mean however that some maintainers will not get the complete package, and anything ships can do by critically examining their requirements to ensure that only the essential

PJTs are called for, will help.

When arranging PJTs, Drafty's aims in order of priority are: 1. Arrange all PJTs to be completed before joining the ship.

2. Arrange longest courses first, and before joining, then programme the remainder for "ship to release."

3. For any courses not available in timescale before joining, ship to arrange directly with training establishment as convenient to programme.

"Sorry, you're in the red already!"

Drafty // on the Weaponeers / HNC

recognition back on line

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In HMS Collingwood to give a routine drafting lecture recently, the Ordnance Drafting Officer Lieut.-('dr. Les Moores, was "thanked" for his efforts by b e i n g hosed d o w n and dunked in green smelly slimy water! All in a good cause however, as part of a fund-raising event for the Children in Need appeal. It was clearly enough to warm the cockles of many a non-preferec's heart, and one aggrieved soul a c t u a l l y paid £15 for the privilege of manning the hose. To cap it all. the visits was recorded as 1 PRE!

0767 2 6 0 3 4 8 for an appointment to view our showhomes.

Britain's leading purveyors of self-build homes Potton Ltd., The Old Foundry, Willow Road, Potton, Nr. Sandy, Beds SG19 2PP

Since 1981 WE Artificer training at HMS Collingwood has been recognised by the Business and Technician Education Council (BTEC). and training in the Technical and Application Schools has attracted the award of the BTEC National Diploma and N a t i o n a l C e r t i f i c a t e respectively.

Earlier news announced the withdrawal of recognition of the HNC due to changes in BTEC requirements. The good news is that this is no longer the case, and full recognition will now continue as a result of changes which are being made to the course beyond the break point at HMS Collingwood and the Submarine Schools. All WE artificers who complete training will therefore continue to be eligible for the award of both the BTEC National Diploma and the Higher National Certificate.

-WE DRAFTING TEAM™ Drafting Commander and WE Warrant Officers' Appointer: t'dr. Colin James (cxl 2524).

Apps/Art Can/Office Manager C W R E N Sue Bailey (cxl 2520/2524) WEM Dan Maskall (ext 2520).

Ordnance/WD/OC Drafting: Lieul.-Cdr. Les Moores (cxl. 251 I); POWREN Sharon Goodwin; LWREN Ann Miskimmin, WTR Nobby Clarke (cxl. 2529/2511).

Radio/AD/CEW Drafting: Lieul.-Cdr. Us Maddock (exl. 2525); POWREN Linda Buttle; LWREN Sue Collis; W R E N Ha/cl Nicolson (cxl. 2527/2525).

First impressions LAST October saw the departure of Cdr. Richard Jenkins to HMS Collingwood, and the arrival of the new WE Drafty, Cdr. Colin James from the Ministry of Defence. Initial impressions from the new boy are amazement at the juggling act which Drafty has to perform, and even more amazement at the range of subjects on which Drafty is expected to be a world expert. The juggling act consists of balancing the need to achieve a high percentage of first preference drafts, complying with the rules of BR14 (Drafting Instructions) and meeting long PJT requirements, all with severe shortages in some categories and overbear ings in others. Enquiries fired at the drafting desks vary from statements on Community Charge eligibility to the content of QCSE courses at Boarding School. Clearly there is more to drafting than just authorising draft orders!

There are however some standard responses which can be applied to almost any situation: "This Is not a Drafting problem!" (covers most enquiries).

"We'll have another look at it" (Drafty may have got it wrong).

"Which of your friends would you like me to give him to?" (response to a ship seeking to move someone on).

Seriously though, Drafty really does try his best to help.

CALLING ALL MEA ARTIFICERS FEEDBACK to the ME Drafting Section indicates that some confusion has arisen as a result of the item in last November's "Clanky's Corner" concerning CND's policy towards MEA Artificers under training. This seemed to imply that POMEAs would be drafted from their training ships as soon as they had attained their watchkeeping qualifications. The suggestion was that training for PQE should continue ashore thus allowing bunks to be released for those more junior in the training pipeline.

The ME Drafty wishes all those involved to be assured that the policy is to leave POMEAs in their ships until fully qualified for CPOMEA and if possible to give them time at sea to consolidate their training before being drafted ashore into shore billets. Individual circumstances and ship programmes may dictate that this policy cannot always be strictly adhered to; Drafty will however always do his best to ensure that the wishes and needs of the individual are given the fullest consideration. However, with the reduction in training billets available it will be even more important for the results of fleetboards for PQE to CPOMEA to be forwarded in timely fashion.

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

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Ships of the Royal Navy

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Mo.435 Facts & figures Length: 153ft. Beam: 28.8ft. Displacement: 440 tons. Ship's company: 32. Main machinery: Two 3,000 bhp Paxman Deltic 18A-7A diesels. Structure: Double mahogany hull on aluminium frame.

Active rudders for precise manoeuvring while minehunting. Speed: 15 knots. Range: 2,500 miles at 12 knots.

Kellington — friend of the environment PAYING off in September, the Coniston class minehunter HMS Kellington is anything but languishing . . . She will continue to pursue her Fishery Protection Squadron duties and carry out visits, including one to her affiliated town, Whitby.

Only recently she has called in at Swansea, Liverpool and Jersey and has exercised with Sea Kings from RN air station Culdrose and the Sennen Cove Lifeboat, being featured on BBC (South West).

In all, 118 Ton class vessels were built, originally as minesweepers. The remaining handful, also including minehunters, are all seconded to the Fishery Protection Squadron.

Yorkshire HMS Kellington is the first Royal Navy ship to bear the name of the small village east of Ferrybridge, Yorkshire. She was laid down in January 1954, launched 10 months later at the William Pickersgill and Sons yard in Sunderland, and commissioned in November the following year.

Initially based in Malta, temporarily with the 108th MSS, she sailed as far as Mersin, Turkey, before returning home.

Since, she has served with MCM4, MCM10 (RNR) and now MCM3.

Her look and form have altered somewhat over the years.

The original open-top bridge has been covered, with the wheel moving up from the wheelhouse to the bridge. Today equipped with the 1006 I band navigation radar, the Kellington in the past has had both the 974 and 975.

When she was converted to a hunter in 1969, her Mirless JVSS12 diesel engines were replaced by two Paxman Deltic diesels. Her main armament is the Bofors 40/60 Mk 3 gun with a rate of fire of 120 rounds per minute. In her mine hunting role, the ship uses her Type 193M hull-mounted sonar to

locate the mine.

Divers then position an explosive charge close to the mine, retreat to a safe distance, and explode it. The Kellington also has a mechanical sweep capability, using the Single Orepesa, Double Orepesa or Armed Team sweep methods.

Her primary role today, however, is fishery protection. Fishing vessels are i d e n t i f i e d , boarded and inspected in accordance with EC regulations, to enforce conservation measures. These regulate size of nets, fishing gear and type and size of catch.

In this way HMS Kellington is playing a vital role in protecting the country's fish stock and proving herself "environmentally friendly".

Putting the muscle into Ag and Fish? HMS (Wellington (above) is part of the Fishery Protection Squadron — oldest squadron in the Royal Navy — and with her sister vessels operates under contract to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. The Squadron helps ensure EC fishery regulations are followed to protect the sea's harvest.

POSTCARDS of Ships of the Royal Navy are obtainable at 50p each (minimum order £1.50) from Navy News, HMS Nelson, Portsmouth PO1 3HH. An order for 12 cards is priced at £5.50. and a standing order for the supply of each of 12 cards on publication can be arranged on receipt of £10. Prices include postage and packing, and postcards will be despatched on receipt of stamps, postal order or cheque. No postcards are stocked of ships which paid off before 1956.

PRESENTATION CALLS (Regulation Pattern) I make really great GIFTS or AWARDS w ^^_^»«___v^^_^_ ^ Expertly ENGRA VED with name, rank & Number or a message to a girlfriend, etc. In presentation box with matching 50in. neck-chain, historical notes, and a guide to piping.

22ct. Gold-Plated Call £19.95 Silver-Plated Call £17.95 Polished Brass & Copper Call £12.95 Nickel-Plated Call £12.95 Engraving £ 1.60 per line of up lo 18 tellers and spaces (capitals and numbers count as 2).

Maximum 4 lines (2 each side). Add 90p postage, etc. We aim at return-of-posl service. We also manufacture unengraved Regulation "naval issue" Calls at £8.95 and standard chains al £3.99. Postage £1.10. Special discounts for R.N. Associations. Cadet Units. Sea-Scout Troops and clubs on application. Credit cards accepted.

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WE'LL TREASURE IT, THANKS A BIG wheel in Grimsby — this one, a trophy from the Gulf War, was presented by HMS Brocklesby to the residents of Nelson House in gratitude for their "outstanding support" during the ship's eight months away clearing Iraqi-laid mines.

A sadly neglected survivor of the shelling of Kuwait, the wheel had been "liberated" from a laid-up ship in the port.

Refurbished It was refurbished and restored by members of the ship's company after spending six weeks lashed to the sweep deck on the return voy-

age to the UK. Commanding Officer Lieut-Cdr Simon Snowball and LS Shaun Wellings are seen here handing over their gift at the sheltered housing unit which was opened during an earlier visit by HMS Brocklesby in

1990.

JOY'S ROSES

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 Options

to hold reunion

\lflfflTINE \flVUU> A BIT

CflKb

ON Monday, May 25, Cambridge Veterinary School and its own charity CAMVET is holding an open day to help raise funds for a new £2 million Small Animal Hospital. Thanks to the generous British public we have recently built an animal cancer treatment unit costing over £1 million, shortly to be opened by the Duke of Edinburgh.

Along with the many other attractions arranged for open day, we would like to bring together as many HM Forces animal mascots, either official or otherwise, as possible.

I know that ships' pets are no longer officially allowed, but if shore establishments have any

Where are our WO2s?

I WRITE in support of the "Band of Brothers" letter (December).

My question is, "How long will it be before we see WO2s in the RN?" The Armed Services are, we understand, assessed for pay and pensions using the "Band of Brothers" concept. If this is the case, where are the Royal N a v y WO2s?

Whether this should involve Charge Chief Artificers I would not wish to say. But perhaps the following points may be of some use to Review Bodies of the future.

In my present job I have often met Army technical staff who have been interested in what I do. After an explanation, they usually reply suggesting it is the same job their WO2s and ASMs (Artificer Sergeant Majors) do.

The reply to the "Band of Brothers" letter says the title Charge Chief recognises special command status (with a higher rate of pay), "but for other military purposes the rank CCPO is considered equivalent to a CPO." A c o n t r a d i c t i o n in terms for anyone who has ever been a Charge Chief.

or ships keep any ashore, 1 would be most grateful to hear from them.

As far as I know there has never been an attempt to get all Forces animal mascots together before. — J. H. E. Moyle. Animal health technician. University of Cambridge, Dept. of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 OES.

Young, single and paying for it!

SINCE joining the Royal Navy I have been subject to discrimination. To stop pulses racing, I am not referring to racial discrimination but to age and marital status.

I joined the RN at the age of 16'/2 u n d e r the OE1 scheme, uncommitted but with bonuses for time done.

Why did I have to wait until the age of 18 before my time started to qualify for these bonuses? Instead of receiving my first bonus after serving 4'/z years I received it after 6 years — a year-and-a-half after my compatriots who joined up with me but at the age of 18.

No. 451

We all join the Navy, so why do some of us have to serve longer than others to qualify for these "perks", bonuses, pensions and GCBs. Discrimination I say!

"Ah! Y o u ' r e s t i l l u n d e r 'parental guidance' until the age of 18" is your answer. So what! We're still doing the same job as our counterparts who joined up with us but happen to be 18 or over. We still

Workhorses of the UPO

Anomaly I was advanced from the rate of CPOMEA to the rate of CCMEA but remain a CPO. I have therefore been rated CPO twice without a disrating in between. This would appear to be a total anomaly because when I inspect my pay statement I see my seniority date is dated when I passed my Charge ticket, not the date when I was advanced to CPOMEA. If a Charge rate is a skill adqual, which is the reply I have seen printed in the past, why should a Form B13 be issued? No such form was issued when I attained the skill adqual of ship's diver, for which the badge is worn on the same sleeve.

And why does the Charge badge (skill badge) closely resemble a military WO2 badge?

It even contains half a naval Warrant Officer's badge. — CCMEA, Devonport.

Letters

I AM trying to trace the history of a large silver cup belonging to HMS Defiance and inscribed, "To the Glory of God and in Remembrance of the Officers, Ship's Company and WRNS of HMS Defiance."

Any details on who commissioned the cup, what it was used for and when it was made would be gratefully received. — I. Eglin. Chaplain, Second Submarine Squadron, HMS Defiance, HM Naval Base, Devonport, Plymouth.

LETTERS to the Editor should always foe accompanied by the correspondent's name and address, not necessarily for publication.

38th year

Editorial and Business address: Barham Block, HMS Nelson, Portsmouth, Hants, PO1 3HH Editor: John Tucker. Deputy Editor: Jim Allaway Assistant editors: Lindy Clegg, Ruth Vernon and Paul Parrack Business Manager: Mrs. Anne Driver TELEPHONES Editorial: 0705-822351 (Portsmouth Naval Base) extensions 24194 and 24163 Business (advertising, distribution and accounts): 0705-822351 ext. 24226 Additional direct line to all departments: 0705-826040 Fax: 0705-830149

HAVING managed a large shoreside UPO for three years before my current draft, I feel qualified to comment on the local acting advancement remarks by LWRENWTR (December).

On several occasions, it was necessary to give the Local Acting Leading Rate to Writers/Wren Writers who had not long finished their Part IV training. This was due to overall branch shortages and the resultant gapping of billets, and shoreside UPOs were the favourite targets due to the numbers involved.

This local acting advancement was not done on a "we're one down, so let's rate one up" basis, but had to be earned by a combination of hard work, dedication and the potential for early advancement through normal channels.

If those Able Rates had had to wait until they had attained 18 months' seniority, then the gapping would have reached unacceptable levels.

Constant shortages As to the comment that the Able Rate is the "workhorse" of the branch, I would beg to differ. This may have been the case several years ago, but no longer. Since introduction of CBP, Review of Allowances, Review of Review of Allowances, constant shortages of training Junior Rates, and now the additional loading as a result of the adjustment of Part III training to place more emphasis on Part IV training, the burden has been put fairly and squarely on the shoulders of the Senior Rate Writers.

Perhaps the answer may be to draft the LWREN to a UPO as a Local Acting PORENWTR? Drafty please note. — A. Stewart.

CPOWTR. UK Element, HQ BALTAP, NP 1004.

serve in ships; we're part of the team.

Then there's the matter of the Pay Review Body's decision to treat single people the same as married personnel.

"Terrific" cried the single people. Oh, if only it was true!

A draft from Portsmouth to Plymouth. Moving expenses. 1 thought to myself. "Sorry mate you don't qualify", was the answer. I must do, I thought, especially under the new single person allowances. If I was married then I'd qualify. In fact single people qualify — but only if over 25. So there I was — single and under 25 — no moving expenses. Discrimination.

Victimised A draft from Plymouth to Portsmouth non-preference. I own my house in Plymouth — as encouraged by Government, etc. Surely with a mortgage to pay in Plymouth I'll be exempt from accommodation charges.

The answer, "Single mate?"

"Well, yes — but over 25", I reply. "Makes no difference you've got to pay", I'm told.

Does a m a r r i e d man pay accommodation charges? No! He doesn't even pay as much for food as a single person.

So why should we single homeowners be victimised for purchasing property, especially when we've been drafted away from our "home" areas through no fault of our own? Discrimination is the concluding answer that comes to mind. — N. B. Jones. CPOWEA. Portsmouth.

• In a g e n e r a l c o m m e n t DDNSC(Pay) said, "In English law a 'young person' does not become an adult until reaching age 18 which is the reason why they are not allowed to vote.

The Royal Navy is complying with this law in their treatment of 'young persons' including

Dancing to another tune OUR female counterparts wish to be "all of one company." They want to go to sea, and have been accommodated. They want naval ranks and they have got them. They want gold braid, and this is being introduced.

They have equality where it suits them, but when it comes to naval balls it is a different matter. Where the rig for naval officers is uniform, they want to go not as naval officers but as ladies in their superb ball gowns.

When tackled on the subject the staff answer was that the majority were going as guests, even

though they themselves were Mess members. For the remainder, they had the approval of the senior WRNS officer to wear ball gowns. "The age of chivalry is not dead" was added as a PS. If ladies are given the option to go in ball gowns, why should not the men be given the option of going in dinner jackets? But surely, is not uniform proper for ALL mess members at a ball?

Are we really now all of one company or are all naval officers equal but lady naval officers more equal? — I. Inskip. Cdr. Northwood.

acting 'in loco parentis'.

"Regarding the point on bonuses, targeting measures including bonuses are used to try to retain people beyond the stages in their career when they would normally think about leaving — the timing of the bonuses is judged on age rather than previous service.

"While there are still differences in the treatment of single and married personnel, perhaps the writer will agree that great strides have been made in recent years to improve conditions of service for single Servicemen and women, including LSSB, LSAP and removal benefits. We are constantly trying to increase the benefits available and improve on those already in existence."

Thorough grounding FINDING your article on HMS Dryad's OOW training "Watch this Space" (December) interesting and entertaining, could I also mention another Service?

Here at St George Barracks, Gosport, we still train up to three young Army officers and six senior NCOs a year in Watchkeeping duties. They go on to become First Lieutenants or Watchkeepers in our small range of vessels and landing craft up to the ocean-going landing craft logistic (1,600 tonnes).

While our fleet is small, and our throughput low by comparison with Dryad, we seek to m a i n t a i n the same exacting standards. Our syllabus covers everything from ARPA Radar to hand lead line, GPS to sextant. Yes, we still teach astro navigation — our blind faith in electronics is not perhaps what it should be!

Granted our operational t r a i n i n g may be l i m i t e d to NBCD and Damage Control, but we can claim one subject that Dryad does not teach — the skill and ability to run aground whenever and where ever the situation demands it!

— D. Nicholas, Major (retd).

Maritime Division, School of Transportation (Army). Gosport.

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

Instow

Options

'fie wise with speed„

on gas THE ROYAL MARINES at the Amphibious Trials and Training Unit at Instow don't waste their energy — and to prove it they've won the Royal Navy British Gas Energy Efficiency Award.

Entering the competition for the first time, the Unit was one of the few MOD (Navy) establishments to have achieved the five-year target of a 25% reduction in energy consumption set by the Navy Department, and the only one to have achieved all the set targets for 1990/91.

The total amount spent on energy by M O D ( N a v y ) amounts to some £26 million annually, and much effort is now being made to reduce the consumption of non-operational energy. At the end of the five-year campaign aimed at cutting energy consumption by a quarter, the Navy Department has managed an overall cut of around 20 per cent — a most respectable result, according to the Directorate of Naval Infrastructure and Environment, responsible for establishing energy-saving policies.

— Minervawas!

HMS Minerva sails into the sunset for her last deployment before decommissioning at Easter.

Her ports of call include many sailors' favourites, including Hull, Falmouth and Liverpool for a final visit to her affiliated town of Salford.

During the 26 years since the Leander Class frigate first commissioned she has steamed over 750,000 nautical miles, burning nearly 90,000 tons of fuel.

Her speed in that time averaged out at 13.1 knots — only just over her most economical rate, which should please the accountants at Headquarters ...

Participation in Operation Corporate added the Falkland Islands to her Battle Honours, now six in total.

Among the many other operational tasks that the Minerva has carried out over the years were the famous Beira Patrols, when Britain was attempting to carry out an embargo against Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe).

In the best traditions of the Royal Navy time was always found for a run ashore and since the day when the White Ensign was first hoisted in her she has visited 75 different countries, many of them several times, and has been alongside in every continent except the Antarctic.

Recently the Minerva visited Bulgaria, Romania and Crete and spent some time in the Adriatic before handing over to HMS Exeter there before Christmas.

• The Minerva's sister ship HMS Cleopatra decommissioned at Devonport last month after 26 years' service.

• Another West Country establishment — the China Fleet C o u n t r y Club — has also shown itself to be in the forefront when it comes to energysaving awards.

After installing an all-electric heating and hot-water system, electronically controlled, in its 40 holiday apartments and incorporating low energy design in the building, the Club has won the South Western Electricity Business Connection BETA Award for a project demonstrating exceptional energy management skills.

One to bear in mind

Letters

Salt taste of Sevastopol

AS the RN is now acquiring HMS Polar Circle, the Ships' Naming Committee might consider resurrecting the name Polar Bear, which was the name of NOIC's base in the Faroe Islands between 1943 and 1945.

I also understand that a certain Lieut. Horatio Nelson had a minor action with one of the four-legged variety. — J. Wilcock. Chairman, Humber Naval Enthusiasts, Hull.

Brass hat, A SENIOR officer obviously missed the letter by CPO(METOC) in the December edition about the wearing of uniform in public.

Not only did he drive into Fareham rail station in rig on a busy Friday afternoon to pick up his date for the Christmas ball, but decided to leave his car to buy an evening paper from inside the station. At least he remembered to wear his cap!

It is a- bad example for ratings and disillusioning for junior officers, like myself, who constantly strive to combat the "double standards" label. — Lieut. BFPO Ships.

I ENJOYED reading your centre pages feature (December) on the visit of HMS Fearless to Sevastopol.

It recalled for me memories of January 1945 when I was drafted in a party of about 30 Telegraphists and Coders to the Cunard liner Franconia which was to be used as communication ship for the Yalta Conference.

A few days after arrival in Sevastopol, arrangements were made for RN personnel to go ashore as guests of the Russian Navy. We were given a tour of the fort in open transport. It was completely devastated after the German occupation.

The Red Navy had built themselves a type of Navy Club in just eight weeks, and here we were given a concert of Russian Slavonic dance and Red choir singing. We were also given a meal consisting of cold fatty salt bacon, a hard tack biscuit and a glass of vodka. The vodka had to be downed first otherwise we could not have tackled the bacon.

Communications for the conference went smoothly. Winston Churchill, Anthony Eden and General Ismay, Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister, came on board afterwards for two days rest and made congratulatory speeches before departing for duties elsewhere.

Even in 1945 we had Wrens on board typing away in the Signals Office and also with the Cypher Staff. — R. Hubbard.

Ex-Coder. Oadby, Leicester.

Trinco dock in detail

I WRITE to correct some of the information you have been given regarding the salving of the floating dock that sank in Trincomalce harbour in 1944. I was serving in HMS Illustrious on that station at that time.

About two thirds of the dock was salvaged by personnel of the East Indies Fleet under the command of Capt. W. A. Doust, R N V R , assisted by • Lieut.-Cdr. G. E. Mabbot, RNR, of the Admiralty Salvage Organisation.

The account I have comes from a rare book entitled "Deep Diving" by Sir Robert Davis, managing director of Siebe Gorman Ltd. One third of the dock was badly damaged and, a l t h o u g h raised, was towed 45ft away and allowed to settle on the bottom, presumably in shallower water as the dock was moored quite close to the shore which is quite steepto. This was presumably the bit salvaged 24 years later by the French firm mentioned.

Incidentally, this was not the world's largest floating dock.

That was at Southampton and had been built by Armstrong Whitworths in 1922. It was 960 ft long and |70 ft wide with a lifting capacity of 60,000 tons.

'TICK BOX

The Trincomalee dock was built in Bombay of Indian steel and measured 845 ft by 173 ft.

It was designed to accommodate HMS Hood, at that time, at 42,000 tons, the world's largest warship. — R. G. Loram.

West Kirby, Wirral, Merseyside.

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Bell appeal for Bolton AT A recent full week-end reunion of the cruiser Dido organised by the town of Bolton, who had adopted her, I learnt that the town in one week raised considerably more than £1 million which virtually paid for the building of the ship.

Does not the town deserve custody of the Dido's bell, does anyone know where it is and cannot the MOD give the town a handsome plaque showing the Second World War honours of the cruiser?

On another subject — the dog Just Nuisance, which is mentioned in Navy News from time to time — older readers may be interested to know that a TV series has been made for showing in South Africa. Perhaps it might be shown on our TV before we who are left are given our final draft chit! — J. T. Kelly. Seaford, East Sussex.

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8 Options

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

Duke works up a sweat

; *c -:• -k\ AFTER successfully completing her Operational Date Material Assessment (ODMA) and Basic Operational Sea Training (BOST) HMS Norfolk, the "Premier Duke", sailed with a "Very Satisfactory" assessment for both her inspection and overall work up.

No-one was quite sure what to expect from the first lean-manned Type 23 frigate but Flag Officer Sea Training Staff pulled no punches, giving HMS Norfolk the full package, including a major Disaster Exercise.

The small ship's company requires efficient organisation and it was encouraging that the ship's administration coped with the demands of BOST — although no-one is claiming it was easy!

Vertical launch Seawolf The frigate's sophisticated equipment performed well in all fields, from warfare to firefighting, even though many of the systems have still to be fully accepted into service. The Vertical Launch Seawolf proved effective, providing cover against both fighter aircraft and missile attack.

At the end of the second sea week Tom King, Secretary of State for Defence, visited the ship during a RAS and professed himself to be "most impressed" by what he saw and the "skill and professionalism" of those on board.

All in all the Norfolk's ship's company were delighted to have had the chance to show what a Duke can do before joining the operational Fleet.

The rest of the programme for the coming months includes visits to Portsmouth and London, two weeks of a joint maritime course and a further Vertical Launch Seawolf firing before deploying to the Far East.

IT'S THE BRIDGE THAT JACK BUILT • Above left: HMS Norfolk, the first of the Type 23 Duke Class frigates, at sea during ODMA and BOST. 0 Top: Flag Officer Sea Training Rear-Admiral Michael Boyce inspects HMS Norfolk's Guard during Divisions.

•

Above: A firefighting team in action during the frigate's Disaster Exercise.

BRIDGING the gap proved an easy job for ALMEAs from HMS Sultan when they were called upon to demonstrate their skills as bridge builders.

Their task was to span a 15m ravine, high above Ponsticill Reservoir in the Brecon Beacons, which had been interrupting progress on the Taff Trail cycleway between Cardiff and Brecon.

The location of the site made the use of heavy machinery impossible so the team of eight, led by CPOMEA(M) Googie Withers, had to rely on more traditional field techniques to span the 13m-deep gorge.

The bridge, minus its handrails which are still to be made, was in place within a week.

Financed by Mid-Glamorgan County Council at a cost of £25,000, the project was organised by Merthyr and Cynon Groundwork Trust in conjunction with the Forestry Commission and the Brecon Beacons National Park.

• Pictured with the results of their week's labours are, back row, from left, CPOMEA(M) Googie Withers, ALMEAs Chappy Chapman, Doubles Duval, Morts Mortimer and Zippy George; centre, ALMEA Carl Badham; front row, ALMEAs Nobby Hall, Jim Bowie and Chuck Norris.

NAVY NEWS. FEBRUARY 1992 Options

Jupiter on in the Fal anas TO commemorate the Battle of the Fa Ik lands in 1914 members of HMS Jupiter's ship's company took part in the annual Battleday Parade at Port Stanley, together with members of the Falklands Island Defence Force.

HMS Jupiter has been on station in the South Atlantic since late October, along with HMS Dumbarton Castle and RFAs Diligence and Grey Rover.

During this time she has carried out her normal South Atlantic duties as well as visiting settlements around the Falklands Islands, including Fox Bay, San Carlos, Saunders Island and Port Stanley. She also visited South Georgia, taking supplies to the garrison there.

HMS Jupiter leaves the South Atlantic this month and returns to the UK via Rio De Janeiro and Barbados, arriving in Portsmouth in late March.

Unfortunately this marks her last deployment as it is intended she pays off at the end of April after 22 years in service.

Above: Members of the ship's company from HMS Jupiter march through Port Stanley during the Battleday Parade.

• Left: Governor of the Falkland Islands, Mr. William Fullerton, inspects HMS Jupiter's guard of honour.

• Right: HMS Jupiter alongside RFA Diligence in Mare Harbour.

WOMEN HIT THE RIGHT NOTE WOMEN are to be recruited into the Royal Marines Band Service, and will serve on the same terms and conditions as male bandsmen.

The change brings the Marines into step with the Army and RAF professional military bands, which currently have women musicians in their ranks.

The first female recruits will join the Royal Marines School of Music this autumn. They will receive the same training as men, including weapons training.

Meanwhile studies into the feasibility of women serving in the Corps as Commandos are continuing.

• By the end of 1991, women were serving in 17 RN surface ships. As reported earlier, the feasibility of women serving in submarines in the future is being studied. Last year it was also announced that women would be able to undertake aviation roles in the Navy.

A NOVEL child safety idea encouraging children to "Say No To Strangers" has won the support of HMS Nottingham.

The Type 42 destroyer, which was rededicated at Portsmouth in December after a 13-month refit, has raised £289 to pay for 17 red triangular signs underlining the importance of the "Stranger Danger" campaign.

The scheme is being promoted by Hampshire Constabulary in Gosport and the signs, sponsored by individuals or, in HMS Nottingham's case, messdecks, are being erected in areas popular with children.

After raising enough money to pay for 17 signs the ship's company have kept up the momentum by selling "Stranger Danger" car stickers, adding a further £50 towards the campaign.

Ships or individuals who wish to buy some of the signs for their affiliated town, or for Gosport, should contact PO(S) Geoff Lawson, in HMS Nottingham, or PC Mike Hampton, at Gosport Police Station.

• Pictured, far right, receiving one of the "Stranger Danger" signs from PO(S) Geoff Lawson and members of HMS Nottingham's ship's company are PC Mike Hampton and Superintendent Lee.

Nottingham's no stranger to danger

9

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

10

People in the Mews

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Phil's hot on his father's heels

MATTERS MEDICAL FORMER GP Victoria McMaster has swapped life ashore for a seagoing practice. As a Surgeon Chief Officer, she has become the Royal Fleet Auxiliary's first ever female crew member.

A graduate of Southampton University Medical School, Victoria has also worked as a civilian doctor at RAF Wroughton, the Royal United Hospital in Bath, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, and at a children's infirmary in Australia.

Now serving in RFA 01wen, a Fleet Tanker, she is responsible for the health of 90 officers and ratings, as well as that of any embarked Fleet Air Arm personnel.

D

Picture: POA(Phot) Bemie Pettersen

POA(AH) Charles Dowdall certainly fired his son's enthusiasm for a career in the Royal Navy. Phillip followed his dad into the Service as a Naval Airman (Aircraft Handler) 20 years on.

They are now serving side-by-side at N air station Culdrose, with Phillip based at the Fire Station. And they are pictured tackling a practice fire at the School of Aircraft Handling.

1

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Dr Helen Barlow has become the first winner of the annual Chris Church.

Prize after achieving the best result in the undergra duate anaesthetics examination at Leeds University Medical School.

The Prize has been financed by a memorial fund, to which the late Dr Church's National Health Service colleagues and the Society of Naval Anaesthetists contributed.

A graduate of St Bartholomew's, Dr Church took a short service commission in the Royal Navy and jater maintained strong links with the Service, being an active member of the Reserve. He died in 1989.

GULF SERVICE AWARDS MADE A COMMENDATION in the name of the First Sea Lord has been awarded to Cdr. Richard Lord, Technical Staff Officer to the Director General Surface Weapons (Naval).

The commendation was presented personally by Admiral Sir J u l i a n Oswald at ARE Portsdown, home of DGSW(N).

It was made in recognition of Cdr. Lord's outstanding leadership, initiative and dedication in coordinating DGSW(N)'s Gulf War response.

Admiral Oswald is pictured (right) making the presentation to Cdr. Lord, who is accompanied by his wife, Denise.

• Cdr. Nick Batho has received a commendation from

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the Commander-in-Chief Fleet, Admiral Sir Jock Slater, for his role as Fleet Operations Officer during the Gulf War. • There was also a commendation from Admiral Slater to Lieut.-Cdr. Michael Leaney for his role as Officer in Charge of the Fleet Diving Unit embarked in RFA Sir Galahad during the Gulf War. Lieut.Cdr. Leaney established a joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal Cell, which advised his American superiors.

NAVY NEWS. FEBRUARY 1992

11

Reunited by war

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—Prize Rolls-i full circle CPOMEA Colin Torney has won the Rolls-Royce and A s s o c i a t e s Prize for achieving top marks on the Nuclear Propulsion Charge Course in HMS Sultan. Presentation was made by Mr. Harry W y s e , a senior manager at RR&A. Mr. Wyse completed the NPCC forerunner, the Nuclear Long Course, finishing top in 1966 and becoming second winner of the RR&A Prize.

EAT THAT THEY just didn't want to see him go! Master-at-Arms Martin Morris and Regulating Staff Officer Sub-Lieut.

Eric Beaton tried to arrest the departure of PC Ken Fitzjohn . . . but after 22 years' service the time had come for him to retire from the MOD Police.

Ken joined HM Dockyard Portsmouth in 1947 as a "yard boy" in the electrical department and two years later was apprenticed as a ship fitter. National Service in the RAF followed and then he returned to the dockyard as a ship fitter.

It was in 1969 that Ken joined the Admiralty Constabulary (later MOD Police) and throughout his career, all of which he served in Portsmouth, there was not a single complaint against him.

His keen sense of humour and popularity with colleagues, including those in the Hampshire Constabulary, made him a fine ambassador for the MOD Force.

Chilean VIP

REAR Admiral Octavio Bollelli. Chief of the Naval Mission and Chilean Naval Attache, was guest of honour at Britannia Royal Naval College.

He took the salute at Ceremonial Divisions and presented the Armada de Chile Prize to Mid. Mick Maloney. top young Seaman officer. The prize has been awarded a n n u a l l y since I 982.

PORTLAND'S "Weekly War" r e u n i t e d three members of the James family, probably together in uniform for the last time as WO Jess James is shortly to retire after 35 years' service.

The shipwright at Fleet Maintenance Group and sometime sea rider is pictured on board the

Belgian Naval Ship Wielingen w i t h his sons.

Lieut. Peter James and Mne. Stephen James.

Peter is on a two year exchange w i t h the Belgian Navy as the Wielingen's Navigating Officer. Stephen, serving w i t h 45 C'do. recently departed tor a ski instructor's course in Norway. Previously, he spent five m o n t h s in Iraq.

DESCENDANT PRESENTS PORTRAIT

BACK ON

HMS I N V I N C I B L E is now proud possessor of a portrait of Capt. Robert Henry More-Molyneux (later Admiral Sir Robert More-Molyneux), who commanded the fourth ship of the name when she won her Alexandria battle honour in 1882.

The portrait was presented

by Admiral More-Molyneux's grandson. Maj. James MoreMolyneux. who attended a ceremony on board, accompanied by his wife.

n

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a

There was also good news for

a Medical Assistant serving in the carrier. POMA Craig Waylen won top prize in the I n v i n c i b l e ' s C h r i s t m a s raffle, a Rover Metro. Tickets were sold during the ship's three month d e p l o y m e n t , w h i c h included four major exercises and visits to Lisbon. Alexandria. Istanbul and Palermo.

WHEN the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Rt. Rev. Dr William Macmillan, spent a week visiting the Royal Navy in the West Country and Scotland, it brought back memories of his National Service days at the close of the Second World War. Welcomed by Flag Officer Plymouth and Flag Officer Scotland and Northern Ireland, Dr Macmillan met officer cadets at Britannia and new entry trainees at HMS Raleigh. Ship visits and helicopter flights were also on his schedule.

SOMETHING TO WRITE HOME ABOUT.

CHARTER VESSEL

A DOCUMENT dating from 1682 was escorted by four Royal Navy officers when it was sent back to St Helena after restoration at the Public Records Office in London.

Fleet Air Arm officers Lieut.

The 17th century "citizens' Greg Davison (Portland) and charter", c o n t a i n i n g the isCuldrose-based Sub-Lieut. Rob land's laws and constitution, Perkins and Midshipmen Clivc made its journey on board the Pugh and Matt Deavin. picRoyal Mail Sh'ip St Helena, tured (above) with the docuw h i c h operates a b i m o n t h l y ment, joined the ship under the sailing from Cardiff to CapeRoyal Navy's programme of fatown, calling at Tcncrifc. Asmiliarising officers w i t h Mercension Island. St Helena and chant Navv routines.

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13

FamityUfe

Safe and sound in SSAFA home EVERY year 3,000 families face the problems of homelessness and the isolation of readjusting to life outside the Services.

Some of these families are broken and it is for them that Longside House in Blaydon, Newcastle upon Tyne, will provide a comforting and reassuring home — SSAFA calls it a "Stepping Stone House".

As part of SSAFA s broader In the kitchen there are seven through an arrangement with Homeward Bound initiative the local housing association, sep arate areas, equipped with which plans to tackle some of , .

SSAFA's figures show that, po s and pans where each resi the major problems of homebased on a maximum of seven dent can store food for their less ex-Service families. Longwomen and their children stayown use. side House has been developed ing 13 weeks, Longside House The residents are encouraged as a pilot for other, similar could help up to 56 families a to feel in control of their own SSAFA, projects throughout vear. affairs and every effort is made Britain which will help not just The project is just beginning to run the administration estranged wives and children and although it has been deunobtrusively. but whole families as well. signed primarily for women On a practical level, the staff A grant from the Army Benewith roots or connections in the maintain contacts with all the volent Fund made it possible to North East, no one who needs main support organisations and buy the house which has been help will be turned away. welfare agencies in the area. A converted to provide accomR e f e r r a l s can be made social worker visits twice a modation for up to seven womthrough NPFS N a v a l Home week and there are plans to en with children.

Command or through SSAFA offer the residents the chance to social workers and it is they keep in touch with Longside There are two lounges, one of who ought to be consulted first House after the expected 13which is designed to be a "quiet if anyone knows of a family weeks stay comes to an end. lounge" where older children who might benefit from a stay By the end of their stay the can keep up with their school at Longside House. women should be able to move work and meetings can take 0 The opening of the new into permanent housing place.

SSAFA Housing Advisory Service at SSAFA Central Office, in London, anticipates the likely escalation of housing problems when the forthcoming Defence restructuring takes place.

A computer database will m a t c h d e t a i l s of a v a i l a b l e short-term letting accommodation to details of those who require it.

Information includes contact of organisation with available l e t t i n g accommodation, together w i t h some low cost home ownership schemes and any g o v e r n i n g rules of eligibility.

Those requiring housing assistance or information about SSAFA's h o u s i n g i n i t i a t i v e s should contact Diane Myers.

Housing Officer, SSAFA Central Office. 19 Queen Elizabeth Street, London SE1 2LP (tel.

071 403 8783 ext. 233).

GLASGOW'S BABY BOOM

Service insurance launched

MEETING up with three-month-old baby James for the first time is PO David Devine, pictured with his wife Jill during HMS Glasgow's homecoming at Rosyth.

PO Devine, along with CPOSA Huw Scott, LSA Ian Thompson, LS Andy Lawson and AB Chris Horseman, became a proud father during the Glasgow's seven-month deployment on Armilla Patrol in the Gulf and on their return they were all anxious to meet their new-born babies.

While on Armilla Patrol HMS Glasgow sailed 34,000 miles visiting such places as Cairo, Penang, Dubai and Bahrain and during a visit to Singapore some 90 families were able to fly out and enjoy a holiday.

A PROTECTION plan for Service personnel and t h e i r spouses, designed to overcome insurance problems highlighted b\ the Gulf War. has been launched b\ Armed Forces Financial Advisory Services (AFFAS) and i n s u r e r s Scottish Widows.

The companies say that Forces Safeguard pros ides financial security for dependants in the event of death of the policyholder from any cause. an\where in the world — on or off duty. Premiums are fixed at the outsel and guaranteed t h r o u g h o u t the term of the plan.

Details can be obtained by telephoning 0532-459077.

HIVE OF ACTIVITY A NEW social and support centre for Service families, HIVE (Help Information Volunteer Exchange), is now up and running in Gosport.

The establishment of the centre, a converted ground-floor flat at 125 St Nicholas Ave., Rowner, was made possible thanks to support from the Naval Area Community Office, Estate Community Officer, Peter Cook, the Naval Family Services and the Navai Wives Service and is run by Debbie Eaton and Debbie Carter, both wives of servicemen and residents of Rowner.

HIVE is a place where families can drop in any weekday and make contact with others.

Facilities include a coffee lounge, playroom for small children, information centre and quiet room.

Always open for coffee and information there is also a Mother and Toddlers activity group, Thrift Shop for children's clothes

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Manadon fund-raiser THE Wives' Club at t h e R N Enginering College. Manadon. raised over £4,300 which has been donated to a n u m b e r of charities.

Funds, raised by r u n n i n g a .Membership of the club is Christmas bazaar, will be donopen to all w i \ c s and girlated to 19 separate chanties, friends of RNEC personnel and ranging from Muscular Dystrois run b> a committee which phy to the Mission to Seaman. organises both social and fundraising events.

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• Above: Pictured at the opening of the HIVE, in Gosport, are, back row, from left, Deputy Mayor of Gosport Cilr. Joyce upperton (seated), President of the Naval Wives Service Mrs Gil! Hebron and HIVE co-ordinator Debbie Eaton.

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NAVY NEWS. FEBRUARY 1992

Options

Get Wise on Dds

t

arked drop' inSD

THE annual extraction target for Special Duties Officer (Seaman) for 1992-93 shows a compared with recent years.

In every branch ratings are competing for a limited n u m b e r of places a n d , although those who have officer potential continue to be encouraged, they should be aware of the diminishing requirement and the rise in the selection s t a n d a r d which will result.

It is, therefore, important that those seeking promotion are fully qualified as early as possible, to achieve the best chance at branch selection boards.

It is likely that only about half of the eligible SD officers will be selected for warfare training, and these need to be extracted as early as possible.

There is also a steadily decreasing requirement for SD officers in the TAS and G sub-specialisations, so selection into these branches will become more dif-

"We're full up!" of the RN Aircraft Accident Investigation Unit, based in HMS Daedalus.

This award is presented annually by the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators for an outstanding and practical contribution involving safer operation of aircraft or space vehicles, or the enhanced survival of aircrews or passengers.

DCI(RN) 294/91

ficult.

Non-PWO extraction will tend to occur later in the age bracket when candidates have gained more experience.

DCI(RN) 296/91

Extensions on the card ADMINISTRATIVE instructions concerning the Forces R a i l c a r d , now valid u n t i l March 31, 1993, by use of extension sticker, include a reminder on the card's conditions of use and the procedure in the event of loss.

Losses of the card are to be reported immediately to the holder's unit or establishment, and loss or misuse can lead to disciplinary action.

DCI(JS) 101/91

Award no accident THE Sir James Martin Award for 1989-90 has been made to Lieut.-Cdr. Paul Barton, head

Switch on for letters GOING "live" on April 1 will be the new system of electronic letter sorting which involves the a l l o c a t i o n of BFPO numbers to HM ships, vessels of the RFA and RMAS, and naval parties.

The full list of numbers allocated was given in the January edition of Navy News, and people are encouraged to start using the numbers immediately rather than wait for the official start date of April 1 .

DCIs (Gen) 242 and 247

Lourdes on adoption

EACH year the Royal Navy sponsors a number of handicapped children so that they may be taken to Lourdes over Easter week. In 1992 this will be April 19-26.

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Food for thought THE need for propriety and compliance in all matters relating to catering accounts is paramount, says an announcement.

Responsible personnel are reminded of their duty to satisfy themselves fully through regular and thorough checks that the appropriate regulations are being followed in all respects, and that failure to do so will lead to disciplinary action.

DCI(Gen) 250/91

Order of service A service of the Order of the British Empire is to be held in St. Paul's Cathedral on Wednesday, May 13. Those belonging to the Order and holders of the BEM who wish to attend should apply for a ticket giving their name, address, appointment (GBE, KBE, DBE, CBE, QBE, MBE, BEM) and other decorations as soon as possible,

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marked drop in numbers

Certificates for soaring COURSES are held throughout the year at the Joint Services Hang Gliding Centre in Powys, and all Regular Servicemen and women are eligible to attend.

The centre runs elementary pilot certificate, club pilot certificate, tow endorsement and advanced flying courses. It also organises both the annual Inter-Service championships and an annual Joint Service flying expedition overseas. The announcement gives the 1992 course programme.

Besides Regular Service personnel, those eligible to attend are all Territorial Servicemen and women; OTC cadets; and sponsored ACF, Sea Cadet and CCF members over 16.

Dependants of Regular Servicemen and women over 16 and MOD-employed civilians will be taken on a "fill-up" basis.

DC I (Gen) 261/91

and not later than Thursday, March 12.

Applications should go to the Registrar of the Order, Central Chancery, St. James's Palace, London, SW1A 1BH. DCI(Gen) announcement dated Dec 6.

Mail on the black list FACILITIES available to MOD and Service units worldwide for transmission of mail to pverseas destinations are described in an announcement which also lists items prohibited by international regulations.

These include firearms and ammunition; explosives; liquids and semi-liquids; chemicals; pressurised sprays; coins, money or bearer bonds; plants, parts of plants or seeds; drugs and narcotics; animals (jiving or dead); obscene articles, books or publications; tobacco products and alcohol; foodstuffs, including confectionery; and chain letters.

There is also a list of items normally unacceptable but which may be sent if special arrangements are made.

DCI(Gen) 239/91

Navy made simple FOR colloquial language examinations being conducted by the Royal Navy in May, candidates are expected to show basic oral competence in the language concerned.

They are expected to be able to speak the language adequately to enable them to live in the country and cope with simple naval situations.

Candidates may be examined in French, Spanish, Italian, German and Russian. Special requests for examination in any other languages will be considered.

DCI(RN) 299/91

Mina value AN AWARD for salvage services to mv Mina by RMAS Capable and Sealyham on December 3-4, 1987 is now ready for distribution. Value of each share is £10.47.

DCI(RN) announcement dated Dec 13.

'I'd certify the lot!"

- but now It's no badges for jumpers HIGH jumpers do it ...

anonymously.

Traditional RN policy limits wear of specialist badges by officers to those of major arms of the Service, such as aviation and submarines.

Now it has been recognised that wear of the parachutist badge is inconsistent with this policy, and it has been decided that RN officers and warrant officers who successfully complete a parachutist training course will no longer be eligible to wear the parachutist badge.

But it has also been decided that officers and WOs who already wear the badge may continue to do so until they leave the Service.

DCI(RN) 273/91

Venetian class exped

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FANCY a sail tp Venice? No, not by gondola, but on a sail training expedition sponsored by the Submarine Flotilla and open to all uniformed members of the RN and associated branches. The exped. will this summer explore the Mediterranean — taking in a number of ports — as far as Venice.

Exercise Venetian Venture, in a JSASTC Nicholson 55, is aimed particularly at novice sailors. Each of the 11 legs is designed to provide a significant length of cruise, while offering opportunities to vis-

it a variety of ports.

With the exception of two slightly longer legs in the Adriatic Sea, each stage of the exped. is set at two weeks to facilitate ship and establishment administrative arrangements.

Successful applicants will be required to make a personal contribution towards costs.

The announcement gives application details and lists the legs and dates. The crew-change ports include Gibraltar, Palma, Cagliari, Naples, Malta, Athens and Venice.

DCI(RN) 278/91

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 Options

15

Wrens' pregnant pause UNDER new arrangements recently announced pregnant Servicewomen will for the first time be entitled to take up to 14 weeks of paid leave. fies for paid maternity leave An interim maternity leave and who satisfies the condipolicy a n n o u n c e d in 1990 tions attached to the award of allowed Servicewomen who Statutory Maternity Pay met the qualifying criteria to (SMP), will receive her normal take a period of unpaid leave rate of pay during the 14 weeks' and return to work after conpaid m a t e r n i t y leave. This finement. means the amount of SMP payThis has now been reviewed, able will be topped up by MOD and main provisions of the to her normal rate of pay. revised policy, applying to Servicewomen starting maternity However, if she fails lo releave on or after December 16 turn after confinement she will 1991, are as follows: be required to repay the payments made during maternity A pregnant Servicewoman leave, less any SMP to which who qualifies for m a t e r n i t y leave and who wishes to return entitled. to duty after confinement will be allowed 14 weeks' paid leave plus unpaid leave up to an overall maximum of 48 weeks.

Unpaid leave Unpaid leave may be taken before or after confinement, or both, except that it must follow any paid leave.

To retain her right to return to work, a Servicewoman must return to duty within 37 weeks from the beginning of the week of confinement. (The 37 and 48 weeks periods can be extended by up to four weeks if a woman is sick and provides a medical certicate, or if the Service defers her return for valid reasons and notifies her when she can return).

Re-pay To be eligible for maternity leave, she must have worked at least 15 hours a week and have completed a m i n i m u m of one year's paid service during the three years immediately prior to the start of maternity leave.

A Servicewoman who quali-

PICTURES OF WAR Photographs from the Gulf War taken by Lieut.-Cdr. Nigel Huxtable of the RN School of Educational and Training Technology at HMS Nelson are on show this month at the D-Day Museum, Southsea.

"The first Naval officer into Iraq" took over 3,000 pictures while reporting for the Sandy Times, the locally produced n e w s p a p e r for the Gulf forces.

Naafi profits hit by Gulf conflict

NAAFI must develop services to meet the differing demands of a shrinking customer base, said its chairman (Sir Malcolm Field) in the corporation's annual report and accounts.

Like the Services, Naafi had to come to terms with the impact of Options for Change strength reductions. A foretaste of the possible future was felt in a turbulent financial year to April 27, 1991 during which the Gulf conflict hit trading. terest charges reduced the final P r o f i t s for £2.9 m i l l i o n surplus available for appropriaachieved at the half-year fell to tion to just £1 million. £1 million by the year-end because of Operation Granby.

More than 42,000 troops — Investment two-thirds of Naafi's customer potential in Germany — were The bulk of this would be redeployed to the Middle East tained for reinvestment in the and with them went their purbusiness, said Sir Malcolm. chasing power. As a conseHowever, £ 150,000 would go to quence, Naafi's trading surplus Service Central Funds in extra fell £4.5 million to £6.2 million. rebate, to help meet the recreLosses on e x c h a n g e , inational and other needs of creased operating costs, and inForces personnel and t h e i r

Weapon of war to child's plaything. Kuwaiti children play on the wreckage of an Iraqi tank — one of the 45 on display.

dependants. This would bring to £16.3 million — 91.3 per cent, of the distributable profits — the sums returned to customers.

Naafi Council. "By addressing the issues now, and by relevant reorganisation and investment, Naafi can build a new future meeting the needs of the Services through the next decade."

He also said, "The next two years will be crucial and demanding times".

A p r i o r i t y was r e t u r n i n g more UK shops to profitability.

This involved the merging of some families shops with Services shops and the conversion of others — ten to date — to convenience stores. These stocked a smaller range of the most popular grocery items, had counters instead of turnstiles and checkouts, and operated more like typical corner shops.

Rebate These included: £6.1 million received by individuals in discount and d i v i d e n d at the checkout; £3.2 million paid to units locally in rebate; £5.6 million from g a m i n g m a c h i n e revenue; and £1.2 million from video amusement machine revenue.

"Matching this performance in the future depends on Naafi anticipating and overcoming the hurdles which we know lie ahead," Sir Malcolm told the

Not required A suggestion that the Government establish a separate d e p a r t m e n t for ex-Service affairs has been turned down as being unnecessary.

For the Government it was stated that several Government departments were involved in matters which have an impact on ex-Service personnel. Major social and welfare provision for them was integrated with that for the population as a whole, a s w a s t h e case w i t h t h e National Health Service.

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16

Options —

—• • •

>• w i • i

KGFS GRANTS TO NE£DY SAILORS WILL TOPlZMILLION THIS YEAR. MARINE CHARITIES WELCOME CONTINUED FUNDING

TO BE GIVEN FOR SFRVICEWOMEN

iiiiiiiiiiiHiiii i irswaim • -. i~nimti ^^m i i t i t i i i i i i t tiiiimm

Perhaps it stands for 'Kiddy Grants for Female Sailors' as well!"

NEWSVIEW Uncertainties amid the anniversaries

AS 1992 gets under way, two anniversaries loom large in the minds of many serving in the Royal Navy, and of countless ex-Service people and families. For many, reminders will not be necessary, but television, newspapers and books are all playing their part in marking the tenth anniversary of the Falklands conflict and the first of the Gulf war.

Apart from being a salutary reminder of how time flies and the rekindling of memories of times of deep and mixed emotions, it represents — across the span of a decade — a reminder of how the need for a strong Navy remains.

The Falklands war, with a confused background still the cause of controversy ten years on, struck suddenly from "nowhere" at a time when large-scale cutbacks were on the horizon for the Navy.

Some claim that in the great sweep of global warfare, it was a "small" war, but for those involved it was total. In retrospect its outcome, like that of the Gulf war, may have looked preordained, but that is seldom how it seems at the time, especially to those at the sharp end.

As the clear lines of world balance blur, both wars warn how different challenges demand equal care.

Hard look Meanwhile, another TV programme has been taking a hard look at the role and capabilities of the Invincible-class carriers, their helicopters and Sea Harriers. While high in praise for the professionalism of all involved, it posed a series of sharp questions over the size of ships and age of aircraft — and advanced the theory that the Service was perhaps its own worst enemy in ensuring thaf'by skill, professionalism and some low cunning" everything worked.

But to ponder on the size of American carriers is mere wishful thinking, while even to imply that anything less than 100 per cent effort will do goes totally against the grain. In any event, the jobs allocated to the carriers and their aircraft have been successfully accomplished both in peace and war.

Yet it remains no bad thing for the eyes of a wider public to be focussed on capabilities — and the need to maintain them — in a changing world where no-one can be certain round which corner lurks crises like the Falklands and the Gulf.

Sailors' charity clocks up 75 years

KGFS looks to the future

IN THE dark days of 1917, when the U-boat menace was at its height, casualties at sea were mounting daily and funds were required for those in need, the British public responded with a generosity which has since become the hallmark of any conflict affecting the Armed Services.

Money poured into a host of charities to look after the needs of seafarers and their dependants.

Some were of long standing but many were new, with occasional questionable methods of operation which highlighted a need for a central fund to co-ordinate the flow of money.

This problem was met head-on by a group of prominent shipowners, merchants and businessmen, officers of the Royal and Merchant Navies, and representatives of marine benevolent institutions, who joined forces to set up a fund to collect money and regulate the operations of the many charities.

With foresight, it was agreed that a proportion of this money would be conserved for use in

THIS year King George's Fund for Sailors, the central fund for seafaring organisations, celebrates its 75th anniversary. The fund has just announced that in 1991-92 it will disburse over £2 million in grants to maritime charities.

This article takes a look at how the fund started, and its role 75 years on. peacetime when the needs of seafarers might be greater and, with emotions not running so high, voluntary contributions more difficult to come by.

With the help of the City and The Daily Telegraph, a subscription list was opened, fund-raising groups formed and appeals launched — activities which aroused the personal interest of King George V who gave his name to the fund. So King George's Fund for Sailors was born — a fund which retains its Royal patronage three-quarters of a century on.

Maritime charities By the close of 1917, around £55,000 in grants, over £1 million in today's prices, had been distributed to 58 separate maritime charities. Equally important, the fund was in a sound financial position

In the frame A SPRING exhibition of marine art is to be staged in Plymouth to mark the 75th anniverary of KGFS. Held in association with Phillips Fine Art Auctioneers, the exhibition will be open daily in Phillips Salerooms, Armada Street, North Hill, Plymouth, from April 4-7 from 10am until 7pm (except April 7 when it closes at 4pm).

More than 30 artists, including several members of the Royal Society of Marine Artists, are exhibiting their work, which includes pictures in oils, watercolours and other mediums, sculpture and glass engravings.

Recent KGFS events in London have included a reception in the Cabinet War Rooms, where Mrs. Winston Churchill was guest of honour. Involved in the event as one of their final tasks before closure of HMS St Vincent were cooks and stewards. The reception raised over £4,000 for the fund.

for the future. Grants remained at this level until the beginning of the Second World War when understandably they rose to £250,000, reaching £417,000 by 1945 — over £7.5 million in today's prices.

In 1990, before onset of the Gulf conflict, KGFS distributed nearly £1.6 million to 86 different marine benevolent institutions — a figure which now rises to over £2 million this year. It is a further tribute to the fund's achievements that it was asked to administer donations to the Gulf Trust, established at the outset of the Gulf War, on behalf of all men and women serving with the Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet A u x i l i a r y , together with their dependants.

But nowhere is the fund's comm i t m e n t to providing for the future needs of seamen better demonstrated than in its assistance to veterans of the Secpnd World War. The need for assistance for these veterans and their dependants increases as they become older and, in many cases, infirm. The register of former seamen receiving regular assistance, recently set up by KGFS and the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, shows that there are nearly 8,000 such cases.

In addition, many thousands more receive "one off" grants, while others live either temporarily or permanently in homes which the fund helps to maintain.

It is forecast that the number of those looking for help will peak in 1996-7. But the fund's work will continue far beyond then and new needs are now coming to the fore.

The 1991-92 grants total of

£2,011,655 represents an increase, of £432,530 over 1990. Around 87 different organisations will benefit, with disbursements ranging from £200 for the Fisherrow Coast Mission to £234,000 for the Royal Navy Benevolent Trust, and £262,500 for the various funds of t h e R o y a l A l f r e d Seafarers' Society.

Charitable institutions receiving grants cover all areas of seafaring, the Royal Navy, Merchant Navy, the fishing fleets, RNLI welfare funds and others.

The education of dependants of seafarers is playing an increasingly important role'in the fund's activities and grants in this area have increased by £99,480 over 1990. In total, £350,305 will be distributed to children's homes, training ships and schools, scholarships and bursaries for seafarers' dependants.

These include the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children's Trust which receives £110,000.

The Trust will also receive an interim grant in 1992 of £20,000 as the third similar annual payment towards the setting up and running costs of a Child Development Centre at Gosport. The centre is housed in a former ward of RN Hospital Haslar and caters for a maximum of 45 children.

Meanwhile, hospital homes and sheltered housing for seafarers rely heavily on grants received from organisations such as KGFS. Erskine Hospital in Scotland is no exception and this year, KGFS has allocated £25,000 to support routine expenditure and capital projects to improve facilities.

"Despite the economic climate of the last few years, contributions to the fund have continued to grow, year on year, and it is to these benefactors that we express our thanks and gratitude," said Hugh Lawson, KGFS Directoi General.

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 Options

17

Watch the birdie

Nurses on a new tack

IN this case an Abyssinian Roller, pictured in the Red Sea

by LAMETOC Chris Patrick, winning first prize for him in the RN Bird Watching Society's annual photographic competition.

Keen ornithologists who would like to know more about the society, contact the secretary, P. J. S. Smith, 19 Downlands Way, South Wonston, Winchester, Hants, S021 3HS.

Far East memories 50 years on

Brave new role

TYPE 22 frigate HMS Brave has become the latest Royal Navy member of the Standing Naval Force Atlantic, the squadron comprising major units from NATO's maritime forces, whose rofe is that of a naval rapid reaction force.

Deployment plans for the squadron in the coming months include exercises in the Caribbean, and West and Northern A t l a n t i c waters.

COMMEMORATING the 50th anniversary of the loss of HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse, a party of survivors and their next of kin made a pilgrimage to the Far East to pay tribute to their lost shipmates.

Arriving in Singapore, they held a memorial service at Kranji War Graves Cemetry before heading up to Kuantan, on the east coast of Malaysia, where HMS Sheffield was waiting to take them to the spot where the two warships had been sunk by Japanese torpedo bombers.

D u r i n g the poignant and emotional memorial service

more than 50 Field and Poppy Crosses were dropped in tribute, to lie alongside the wrecks of the two ships.

Monsoon Disembarking back at Kuantan in the pouring monsoon rains, the group stood proud and obviously moved as HMS Sheffield's ship's company "cheered ship" to wave farewell

to these gallant veterans.

A final memorial service was held in Singapore cathedral, following which ten members of the group were invited to tea with the President of Singapore, and that evening, during the farewell dinner, a message of goodwill to the party from HRH the Prince of Wales was read, much to the delight of everyone present.

1Odelivered Redanywhere Roses in the U.K. by 1st class post GIFT-BOXED £15.99 ORDER by PHONE

For those in peril....

Disaster at sea is something we all learn to live with. But worse things can happen ashore — when sailors grow old, become disabled, fall on hard times, leave widows to be cared for and children to be educated.

King George's Fund for Sailors looks after Naval widows and orphans from two World Wars, the Falklands Campaign and the years between. It is the Royal Navy's and Royal Marines' own particular Charity and the safety net for more than 100 maritime organisations.

Founded by Britain's great Sailor King, George V, KGFS depends on your generosity.

We look to you to help us continue supporting our casualties, from orphan care to old people's homes. Your donation and your legacy are vital!

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(Orders taken Mon-Fri office hours

& Sat 8.30 till 1) or write (in BLOCK CAPITALS) stating name and address of recipient and your own personal MESSAGE with cheque (made payable to 'Bunches') or your Access/Visa/Mastercard no.to BUNCHES Dept NN5 Unit 1, Welshcroft Close. NG17 SEP. yOU CAN ALSO ORDER AT\Of f•/-*» YOUR POST OFFICE NLLl_5 WE WILL POST YOUR VALENTINE ORDERS ON 13th. FEBRUARY.

KING GEORGE'S RINDFORSAILORS The Safety Net for all Seafarers Captain Christopher Roddis, Captain of HMS Sheffield, drops a Field Cross in memory of those lost in HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse into the waters above the wrecks of the two ships.

I CheshamStreet.Londonswix8NF.Te/:07l-2352884

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Y NEWS. FEBRUARY 1992 Options

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CELEBRATING its fourth birth Aircraft Control branch has so ratings from almost every sour vice to help keep the Navy ir

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" Above - LAC David Cunningham extracts information from a Type 22 frigate computer combat system.

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" Right - "The ship's primary weapon system."

HMS Nottingham's Lynx reports back enemy positions to the LAC in the Type 42 destroyer's Operations Room. " Centre - LWRENAC Sue Reid gets to grips with live helicopter control in HMS Campbeltown at the end of her LAC course.

She is now serving in HMS Ark Royal. " Opposite, top - PAC Jamie Elgar as an air traffic control assistant at RN air station Veovilton. Now fully qualified, he is serving in HMS Polar Circle, the Navy's latest ice patrol ship, in the Antarctic. " Opposite, below - former Radio Operator, now Probationary Aircraft Controller Chris Byrne gets some tactical advice from his instructor during training at the Royal Navy School of Helicopter Control, Portland.

Now making a major contributior needs of the Fleet and to air tra stations ashore, it has quickly bee' -v variety in a fast-moving career to Officer.

Petty - Wrens are already closely invol, with Sue Reid, the first LWRENAC, in November last year.

But the ACs Training Officer Lieu at pains to make it clear that "the the fainthearted."

Training in Flight Planning, Rad Room routines provides an introd& pline as, following initial selection hopefuls start a three-week air traf RAF Shawbury near Shrewsbury.

- -On graduation, the old branch b the new, with the titles Probatioi (PAC) or PLAC, depending on for Some 8-9 months at a naval a assistants get to grips with life working alongside officers and seii passage for the mass of military an uses its facilities and fill the skiu Advancement is swift as the ni for the first real test awaits the Leading Aircraft Controller's qual Fourteen weeks of intense cIa training culminates in live tactical' those qualifying, the award of a hand rate and a licence to contrd Acting LACs join their first fligti the most challenging part of their the Command'and aircrew on the dating the battle picture in the O aircraft safety is all part of life c Like the other Flight personne when no longer required onboard, prepares for the POAC Written P MostLACs pass for the higher rate APOAC while still serving with the thereafter.

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NAVY NEWS. FEBRUARY 1992

its of imagination Card only

lay next month, the r attracted over 100 e branch in the serthe air. to the tactical aviation ff ic control at the air seen to offer plenty of 'ith rapid advancement ed in its development joining HMS Ark Royal t.-Cdr. Dick Brunwin is Dad S hard and not for ar and Visual Control ction to the new grading, the young Ic assistants course at

disci-id dges are replaced by ary Aircraft Controller mer rate. station follow, when in the Fleet Air Arm, br ACs to provide safe d civilian air traffic that s above it. xl hurdle approaches, .C in the form of the lying course. sroom and simulator control at sea and, for well-deserved leading unsupervised at sea. or squadron to begin career so far. Briefing sortie to be flown; ups Room; and ensuring nboard. the LAC disembarks and during this period ovisional Examination. and are currently rated ir first flight, or shortly After a sea draft APOACs go back to RAF Shawbury for the 17 week POAC professional qualifying course. The joint RN/RAF course includes some 16 potentially military ATC Offices and NCO5 and is professionally and socially demanding and rewarding, having made the grade to full Air Traffic Control Officer standard. Successful students return to the Air Stations, to begin the final validation procedure which leads to the award of the coveted "Blue Card".

This permits the holder to control numerous civil or military aircraft simultaneously, in any weather conditions, by day or night.

Sea shore ratios are particularly attractive with most senior rate billets ashore. For those with the talent and drive, opportunities for greater job variety exist through post graduate ATC Area Radar training or tactically in Fighter Control. An exchange billet at RAF Leeming and

the Tornado F3s is available or, for the budding 'Rambos' a front line, "green beret" tour as a Mobile Air Operations Controller with the commando helicopters in the field.

"AC8 from all backgrounds have settled well into their first Flights, which says much for their adaptability, hard work and determination to succeed," says Lieut.-Cdr. Brunwin. "Recruitment is currently buoyant but suitable volunteers are always in demand, in order to ensure that aviation both ashore and afloat remains safely 'under control'."

If you would like to know more about the AC Branch, contact Lieut.-Cdr. Dick Brunwin, the Aircraft Control Training Officer to FONA on Veovilton ext 5236.

20

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

Options

At Your Leisure

Terrorist bashing for teenagers and a ghost story for grown ups THE PERFECT news story, it was once said, had to combine four ingredients: religion, royalty, sex and mystery. (Some wag promptly thought up a succinct example — "My God," said Princess ..., "I'm pregnant. Whodunit?")

A similarly cynical calculation about what would currently constitute a successful American movie might come up with the following musts: teenagers, terrorists, patriotism and Julia Roberts.

On that basis, we now have Toy Soldiers, which has the cheek to offer the following scenario: a gang of terrorists take over a college and hold the pupils hostage, demanding that their chief be released from jail. The authorities are powerless.

But this is an American college and the teenage pupils are not about to be bossed around by a lot of Latin louts . . .

Actually, this shameless farrago is put over with such verve and self-confidence that the end result is an exciting, entertaining picture which did indeed net its producers a handy profit.

The teens aren't excessively heroic (with Lou Gosset providing a touch of grown-up gravitas), the baddies are as

mean and violent a bunch as ever hit the screen and the tension is maintained at edge-of-the-seat level. What about Julia Roberts, though? Oh well, three out of four isn't bad.

Screen Scene The second of this month's 16mm releases also addresses a teenage audience in flattering, if comical, tones. Teen Agent has a plot that can be more or less inferred from its title (high school student is mistaken for top spy) but the fun of the picture is the extravagant way it re-inhabits the world of 007: a rocket-firing sports car, a metal-handed assassin, assault by deadly scorpions, glamorous operatives with exotic names (Ian Fleming himself might have thought up 'Vendetta Galante') and a criminal mastermind bent on world domination (that's Roger Rees, with the permanent scowl of one who's just stepped in something extremely unpleasant). At the centre of all this is the teen agent himself, one Richard Grieco.

And that's quite enough about Richard Grieco.

Doc Hollywood is the first American film of Michael Caton-Jones, British director of Scandal and Memphis Belle. It's the sort of movie they allegedly don't make any

more: warm-hearted, non-violent and standing up for what might still be called old-fashioned values.

Michael J. Fox plays an unscrupulous sawbones who finally achieves his ambition — a job at a Los Angeles clinic performing unnecessary"vanity surgery" for vast amounts of money. However, he's sidetracked by a traffic accident en route to L.A. and finds himself sentenced to a few days' community service, acting as doctor in one of those little rural towns where a patient is liable to pay for having his bunions treated by giving the doc a piglet.

Any doubts as to how the story is going to work out are dispelled as soon as we meet the town's attractive lady ambulance driver. But it's still an affecting, highly amusing picture, absolutely guaranteed to leave audiences in a better mood than it found them.

You can say the same of Truly, Madly, Deeply, dubbed as "the thinking person's Ghost" and now released on video. The first thing to say about it, since we seem to knee-deep in Americana, is that it's British, the second is that Juliet Stevenson gives as good a performance as you'll see in the rest of 1992, and the third thing is that the film's eccentric blend of tragedy, comedy and the supernatural seems to have captivated everyone who's seen it.

— Bob Baker

AROUND THE WORLD IN SQUARE RIG PART of the fascination of naval uniforms and badges in this century lies as much in their uniformity as in their variety — patterns laid down by the Royal Navy have been particularly widely copied.

As Andrew Mollo notes in his introduction to Uniforms and Insignia of the Navies of World War II (Greenhill Books £25), it takes only a cursory glance at the plates to recognise those features of naval uniform that, through circumstances or tradition, had become almost universal and those that, while not so widely adopted, were common to groups of nations sharing a common heritage.

Thus Greek, Portuguese and Swedish sailors wore the British style stiff cap, with the crown only marginally wider than the band and the tally tied in a bow at the side; and the US white fatigue cap — so popular that it came to be worn on all occa-

troduced a single-breasted tunic with stiff stand collar and shoulder boards.

Everyday working dress was gradually militarised during this period — largely due to the proliferation of combat tasks performed by naval personnel in combined operations.

This trend would continue after the war and culminate in the Canadian experiment of a standard green uniform for all her armed forces, which in the end was found to have taken uniformity too far.

This book derives from the Joint Army and Navy Publication Number One (JAN1), prepared by the US intelligence services — the most comprehensive manual of

Warming the welcome IT is an indisputable fact that the reception accorded to British servicemen on returning to civilian life was for long little short of disgraceful.

Despite the efforts of Charles II, that cynical but essentially kindly monarch who founded the Chelsea Royal Hospital, and later those of the benevolent Marquis of Granby, who paid generous gratuities out of his own pocket — many of

these were invested in pubs which is why so many still bear his name today — it was not until the latter part of the 19th century that more philanthropic individuals were stirred to action.

And then the government was only too happy to allow the question of relief to be settled out of private purses.

The British Army of the 1880s recognised only a very small proportion of wives — only those of senior NCOs and

some men with over seven years' service were "on the strength" and thus eligible for a separation allowance of a shilling a day with an extra threepence for each child.

In Homecoming Heroes (Leo Cooper £17.50), a scholarly expose of a centuries-old scandal, former Royal Army Education Corps officer Peter Reese notes that the Navy was even less caring of its families at this time. In 1886 Admiral Sir Astley Cooper admitted:

"At the Admiralty we do not recognise a married sailor; we do not help him with his family officially."

A hundred years later the author allows that the situation has somewhat reversed — certainly in the matter of housing.

While the Army and the RAF sponsor schemes to encourage saving, only the Royal Navy offers a loan system which many personnel can take advantage of. Today a far larger proportion of RN personnel are home owners.

Allowances In concerning himself with the provisions of Government allowances and Service charities, Reese does not dwell on the support mechanisms provided by the Services themselves, much enhanced postFalklands and strongly evident during the Gulf War. Psychological care back-up for servicemen traumatised by their experiences has been of equal value outside the Service context.

The history of care provision for ex-servicemen has to be seen in the context of the times.

It may be true that our record does not stand up well against that of some of our European and Commonwealth counterparts, but we're getting there — and in some areas we might even be taking a lead.

Heaps of skulls — badges of the special forces of (above from left) the USA, Taiwan, Italy and (left) Syria show their common taste for macabre imagery. From Badges and Insignia of the Elite Forces, by Leroy Thompson. sions — was also adopted by the Argentine and Brazilian navies.

"Square Rig" was similar in most navies, reproducing the image of Jolly Jack in every foreign port, though the only navy to combine it with a peaked cap was the Soviet.

Likewise the reefer worn with collar and tie by officers was virtually standard, the only two exceptions being the Japanese and Soviet navies, the former retaining a rather old-fashioned tunic trimmed with black lace and with a stand collar with rank patches that had been in use in the US Navy at the turn of the century.

Despite efforts to introduce a "westernised" naval uniform during the Provisional Government, the Soviet Navy surprisingly reverted to Tsarist traditions and in-

— JFA

its kind produced in World War II and now a rare collector's item.

Leroy Thompson's brand new Badges and Insignia of the Elite Forces (Arms and Armour £19.95) may become equally prized. It places the livery of each country's cloak and dagger outfits alongside a useful resume of its history — and once again one is struck by the commonality of the outward signs of their esprit de corps.

Since so many of these undercover men have adopted the dead giveaway of a crudely grinning skull as the hallmark of their trade, it suggests that some sort of corporate identity transcends all frontiers — even hostile ones. Like the American Express Card, it is recognised the world over.

— JFA

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"HMS GANGES, the Final Farewell." Ideal birthday/surprise present.

Video documentary including all aspects of GANGES prior to demolishing. NELSON HALL, LAUNDRY HILL, SICK QUARTERS, COVERED WAYS, G Y M N A S I U M S , SPORTSFIELDS, HARBOUR, etc.

One tear-jerking hour of nostalgia.

Produced, directed by JOHN DOUGLAS, author "HMS GANGES. Roll on my dozen!" S.A.E. details: Douglas House, Boscawetha, Penmarth, Carnmenellis, Nr. Redruth, Cornwall, TR16 6NX.

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 Options

21

Major fleet actions analysed In this U.S. Naval Institute photograph an Avenger search aircraft puts down on the flagship Lexington during the Battle of the Philippine Sea in 1944. Poor air search-

ing was one of the key American weaknesses in this battle.

Note the heavy antiaircraft armament of ttiis Essex class carrier: 40mm guns in the foreground, then twin five inch dual-purpose, then a serried rank of 20mm on the starboard side and a pair of five inch singles on the port quarter.

• From Eric Grove's Fleet to Fleet Encounters.

At Your Leisure

K LEARNS THE DANGERS OF RAW EGGS tit

MOST of Johnnie Coote's engaging memoir Submariner (Leo Cooper £18.50) was written during his end-of-war leave, simply as a way of telling his father what had happened to him during Coote Snr's 3'/2 years as a prisoner of the Japanese.

It thus has rather more freshness — and unusual frankness since it was presumably not at first intended for publication — than it might have done had it been penned at a later date, though Capt. Coote's robust sense of humour would doubtless still have come through.

Even so, his post-war naval career, though it included a spell with the British Joint Services mission liaising with US Navy submarine forces at the t i m e nuclear propulsion became a reality with USS Nautilus, inevitably falls flat after the rollicking style of his wartime experiences in HMS U n t i r i n g .

Though the graveyard humour common to his calling is sometimes m i s p l a c e d — as

when he dwells in macabre detail on the task of removing bodies from the wreck of sister submarine Untamed — many of the anecdotes leave images that linger more happily.

Fresh-baked Untiring's cook was actually the genuine article — the one time pastry' chef at Bournem o u t h ' s Norfolk Hotel. The mildewed loaves supplied by the depot ship were thus unknown in this most fortunate of boats, which filled with the aroma of fresh-baked bread every other day — and he inevitably became the most popular man on board.

He always slept on the deck in the galley — and Coote was horrified when while organising a fry-up for the Wardroom card school, he missed the pan with one egg that plopped on to the slumbering cook's beard.

"He never moved but reported sick to the Coxswain next morning: 'Something's wrong. I spewed my ring up during my sleep'."

Elsewhere the frustration of empty patrols bereft of confirmed kills is underlined by the story of how Untiring's Jolly Roger acquired its first insignia of "enemy action" — a tiny white circle to denote the M&B pill prescribed for a "dose" picked up by one of the crew — JFA

Dear dead days of gin at sunset "THERE'S no fun left," is a dangerous cry in the wardroom and messdecks of the Fleet In his introduction to the 1992/93 edition of Maritime Books' popular pocket guide to British Warships and Auxiliaries (£4.99), Mike Critchley wonders whether today's increasingly cost-conscious MOD is worried that "on arrival on some far off shore 'Jolly Jack' may actually enjoy himself."

This may be a grossly unfair analysis of the accountants' motives — more sensibly he shows that the decreasing opportunities for foreign visits carry a strong financial penalty, too.

"Showing the flag" may be, to some, an emotional term: "It conjures up Royal Marine bands playing 'Sunset' against a tropical backdrop as white uniformed officers and civil dignitary and military guests stand solemnly clasping gin glasses," he observes — and that may well be a majority view.

As the years roll by the frequency of such visits has slowly diminished. Is it surprising, Critchley asks, that in many small corners of the globe British influence, both diplomatic and commer-

cial, has diminished as well — vanished may yet be too strong a word "though in recent times cost considerations and the lack of ships have made it seem that this is too often so."

Western defences were rightly reduced with the fall of the Soviet empire — but now the planned number of destroyers and frigates, 40, will be 15 below the figure in 1983 and 25 below what the First Sea Lord at the time of the Falklands, Admiral Sir Henry Leach, considered were needed to meet then existing commitments "none of which has since disappeared".

"It would, of course, be wrong to read a reappraisal of British defence policy simply as a shift in spending priorities. Rather, it is a question of reorientation in defence thinking, putting 'out of area' — as those parts of the globe beyond NATO's geographic confines are known — as the prime consideration in terms of policy, defence procurement and training."

Despite occasional inaccuracies — it was never intended to produce 19 Upholder class conventional submarines, for instance — this remains a useful pocket guide for the ship-spotter with a concern for threatened species.

— JFA

It is unlikely we will ever see a major fleet action again — yet the lessons learned from a trio of 20th century sea battles examined by Eric Grove still had their value in NATO's forward maritime strategy. have gained the upper hand on Fleet to Fleet Encounters land.

(Arms and Armour £16.95) J u t l a n d was much less obvishows how w h i l e changing techo u s l y conclusive. The H i g h nology governed the tide of Seas Fleet could not e v e n be events at Tsushima. J u t l a n d seen to have been neutralised and the Philippine Sea. the unby the action, since it did afterderlying concept — to manoeuwards succeed in tying down vre your main naval u n i t s to British n a v a l strength at Scapa neutralise your enemy's most and Rosyth. a l l o w i n g the Udangerous force — remained Boats w h i c h m i g h t a n y w a y and has remained the same. have been the "most dangerous Tsushima was the only one of force" to wreak h a v o c upon these i m m e d i a t e l y to present British commerce u n t i l well the w i n n i n g side w i t h o v e r a l l into I 9 1 7 . victory, though t h i s was an adBut the Battle of the Philipm i t t e d l y limited war. pine Sea. though it did not in Annihilation itself force the Japanese surrender, certainly made t h e i r defeat It was in any case probably inevitable. the most d e c i s i v e n a v a l Not only did Spruancc's victriumph in history. By the end tory of June 19/20. 1944. desof May 11. 1905. no major Japtroy the main f i g h t i n g power of anese u n i t had been seriously the Japanese Fleet, but it also damaged w h i l e on the Russian secured the bases from which side 12 were lost, together w i t h the most significant strategic lour destroyers and three auxilair attacks in m i l i t a r y history iaries. Such was the shock of were flown. Thus it shares w i t h their a n n i h i l a t i o n at sea that Tsushima the u l t i m a t e laurels the Russians found the pressure of decisive success — and here to make peace too strong, dethe stakes were much higher. spite their possessing an army Though Spruance was critiof over a million in Manchuria cised for his overly defensive that would almost ccrtainlv tactics — he himself admitted that "going out after the Japanese and knocking their carriTWO authors known to centre their works on the world ers out would have been much of sail feature in current fiction lists. One is Alexander better and more satisfactory Kent, sure to expand his already considerable fan club than wailing for them to attack with the publication of The Bolitho Omnibus (Hutchinus" — he also claimed that "the son, £15.99). way Togo waited at Tsushima for the Russian fleet has always been on my mind. We had something of the same basic sitGathered in this volume are three tales of his 18th century uation; only it was modified by naval hero, Richard Bolitho — Stand Into Danger, In Gallant the long-range s t r i k i n g power of Company and Sloop of War. the carriers."

Twentieth century sailing — yacht racing to be exact — Thus two of the most critical provides the backdrop for Sam Llewellyn's excellent thriller, fleet actions are linked in this, Dead Eye (Sphere, £3.99). Smart solicitor Harry Frazer — a man the first of a series designed to with a past — leaves behind high society divorce suits to do analyse specific types of m i l i battle with toxic waste dumpers. Great stuff! tarv encounters.

—JFA

Fiction

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Seapower 2000 (Ireland) T Class Submarines (Kemp) The British Battlefleet Vols 1 & 2 U-Boat Offensive 1914-19 (Tarrant) British Naval Aviation (Sturtivant) The German Navy in WW2 (Showell) The Discovery of the Bismarck Beneath The Waves (Submarine Losses) Atlantic Campaign 1939-45 (V der Vat) No Surrender — The Loss of HMS EXETER Battleship WARSPITE (Tarrant) NATO Major Warships (Europe) NATO Major Warships (US and Canada)

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FOTOFAX Fleet Air Arm 1920-39 Midget Submarines The German Sailor in WW2 Soviet Navy at War French Battleships 1876-1946

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

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At Your Service Reunions

Calling Old Shipmates RNAH Barrow Gurney, Bristol (1942-46): Fred Hill, George Lowe, Ginger Kirton, Tom Logan and Charles Ertie are requested to contact Fred Prosser on 0272 566502 with a view to a reunion in November HMS Calypso (1929-31): Sam Unwins, The Haven. 191 Havant Road, Drayton, Portsmouth PO6 1EE, would like to hear from former MAA Bill Underwood, last heard of at Shotley Y.C. HMS Suffolk (1942-43): H. Clark, 58 Hornchurch Road, Hornchurch, Essex RM11 1JR (tel. Hornchurch 77893), would like to hear from Boy Martyr (Bernard) who finished up as a POLTO training boys at HMS Ganges in 1946-47 and who went on to work in the USA. HMS Royal Arthur (1941-42): E. H. (Ted) Brown, 28 South View Avenue, Swindon, Wilts SN3 1EA (tel, Swindon 535275) would like to hear from Tel. Freddie Harris, Class W.126, who trained with him at Skegness in 1941-42.

8th Destroyer Flotilla: Former shipmates who served in the Far East and regard themselves as "China Hands" are invited to join the association by writing to The Secretary, Mike Gorbett, 1 Melbourne Crescent, Stafford ST16 3JU. HMS Hound (1942-44): Former Algenne Sweeper shipmates are asked to contact C. A Williams. 24 Barryfields, Shalford, Braintree, Essex CM7 5HJ (tel 0371 850 806) HMS Mull of Galloway (1953): Roy Hudyard. Flat 74. Kentmere Court. Victoria Avenue East, Blackiey. Manchester (tel. 061 682 6569) would like to hear from Stan Yates, last heard of living in Portsmouth.

Roy was his best man at Stan's wedding to Jessie Thompson, formerly of Helensburgh.

Naval Writers Branch: Ex-Writer Alan Brundrett, 10 Litherland Road, Sale, Cheshire M33 2PE, would be pleased to hear from WTR Milton (1944-45), formerly ot Liverpool, who was last heard of in Colombo, Ceylon, in HMS Mayina camp and St Joseph's Barracks, or anyone who has information regarding his full name, address and whereabouts.

HMS Hart (1949-51): Mr. O. J. Raybould, 12 Windsor Drive, Kidderminster (tel. Kidderminster 515254), would like to hear from old shipmates.

HMCS W e y b u r n and HMS W y v e r n (1943): Keith Wallace, of the Weyburn, would like to hear from shipmates of HMS Wyvern who rescued survivors from the

corvette when she was sunk on February 22, 1943, with a view to a reunion in the UK or Canada. Write to him c/o A. B. Wadmore, 3 Sheldrake Road, Mudeford, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 4BW. 544 Sqn. (Exton 1943) and 803 LCV(P) Flotilla: Ex-RM Reg Blake, 1 Longford Gardens, Sutton, Surrey SM1 SDR (tel. 081 644 0274) would like to hear from any former member of 544 Sqn. and 803 LCVJP) Flotilla, formed mid 1943 and disbanded late 1944 or early 45.

RN air station Mackinnon Road (194344): Les Taylor. 53 The Croftway, Birmingham B20 1EG, would like to hear from former Tels. Crossley, Daniels, Doughty, Tag Johnny Gilles (France), ABs Breeze, Powell and Small with a view to a reunion.

HMS Collingwood (1943): Ken Holder (tel Cheltenham 528078) would like to hear from Eric Albrighton.

HM ships Hubberston, Houghton and Wilkieston: Poopalu Nagiah, 43 Main Road, Port Dickson 71000, Negri Sembilan, West Malaysia, would like to near from J. Bosworth, ex-LME, HMS Hubberston, Poole, and ex-PO Michael Brett, of HMS Houghton and Wilkieston. 1968-69. He is also willing to pass on photographs of HMS Wilkieston at Port Dickson in March 1969.

Tug Men (1940-50): RTN and T124T articles are asked to contact Bob Durrant, 151 St. Margaret's Road, Lowestoft NR32 4HP (tel. 0502 566136) with view to reunion.

HMS Gosling, Camp 2 (1942): Sam Porter, 42 Birtwistle Street, Gt Harwood, Blackburn, Lanes BB6 7HN, would like to contact former shipmates of class/entry 19E, called up November 1942. with a view to a reunion.

HMS Glory (1945): H. J. Strover. 50 Butlers Close. Lockerley, Nr. Romsey (tel.

0794 40710) would like to hear from Sig. Don Chamberlain, originally from Torquay, last heard of living in Australia.

HMS Burwell, ex USS Laub, Four Stacker — anyone who served in the last commission until her breakup in Tenby contact Mr. Childs, 2 Queensway, Chatteris. Cambs PE16 6DD (tel. 0354 3837).

508 LCA Flotilla (1943-45): John Reed, 29 Freshfields, Harlescott, Shrewsbury, would like to contact Blondie Jones or any other shipmate who served with him during that period.

HMS Whitesand Bay (1945-56): John Reed, 29 Freshfields. Harlescott, Shrews-

PROMOTIONS FOR EMBROIDERED OR SCREEN PRINTED.

l ALL OF THESE WITH YOUR VERY OWN DESIGN. L SEND NOW FOR YOUR FREE COLOUR CATALOGUE!

CONTACT OUR NAVY SALES REPDONNA MASSINGHAM Rodney Road.Fratton Industrial Estate, Portsmouth,Hampshire,PO4 8SY.

bury, would like to contact Ronnie McKay. Clacka McKnight, Len Parrot or any other shipmates with a view to a reunion at Union Jack Club, London on February 8.

HMS Parthian (1939-41): Any of the crew, in particular CPO Roger Backhouse, are requested to contact the Coxswain Charlie "Nutty" Anscomb, 16 Kirk Close, Beckett's Green, Bovey Tracey, Devon TQ13 9YL (tel.

0626 832612).

HMS Truculent: Fred Henley, a survivor from the submarine which was lost in 1950, would like to hear from other survivors.

Contact him c/o Frank Bough, 22 Barnecliffe Dr., Sheffield S10 4DE (tel. Sheffield 303862).

HMS A f f l e c k : D. Benson (ex-HMS Surges), 313 Dividy Rd., Bucknall, Stokeon-Trent, ST2 OBJ would like to hear from CPO T. N. McElroy.

French submarines Junon and Morse: The liaison crew LSig R. T. H. Dixon, LTel J. H. Burden and Lieut. B. M. Gorman are requested to contact M. Seguinard, 114, av. de Montardon. Res La Falame, Ex 1, 64000 Pau, France. He would like to hear from any veterans from the battle of the Atlantic.

LC1 266 (Far East) and RFA Dewdale (Azores): John Kirby, 20 Home Farm Rd., Hanwell, London N7 1PP, would like to hear from former shipmates.

Charlie Glynn: Ex-PO Richard Power, 8 Carleton St., Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, would like to hear from his former shipmate Charlie Glynn.

MV Port Chalmers: H. Sewell, 142 Kempton Road, East Ham, London E6 2NE, would like to hear from former shipmates.

He was a naval gunner serving in the MV Port Chalmers in Malta 1941. He would also like to hear from gunners from the tanker Ohio and the Brisbane Star.

Fleet Air Arm Assn.: John Chapman, 12 Connaught Avenue, East Barnet, Herts EN4 8PN (tel. 081 368 0762) would like to hear from former shipmates who joined up with him at HMS Royal Arthur on July 10, 1941, HMS Nelson (1931): Mr C. H. Rawlings, 7 St. Michaels View, Montacute, Somerset TA15 6UJ (tel. 0935 825056), has a photograph of a cross country running team taken outside HMS Nelson in August 1931 and would like to hear from old shipmates on the team.

HM submarine P.222 (1941): To commemorate the sinking of P.222 on December 12, 1942 in the Bay of Naples the submarine's plaque is being handed over to Swindon RNA. The branch would like to invite relatives of those lost on board the submarine to the ceremony. Contact Swindon RNA, 28 Harding Street, Swindon SN1 5BZ (tel. Swindon 522153).

HM ships Crossbow, Cuxton and Thermopylae: Steve Jamieson, 46 Nadder Park Road, St. Thomas, Exeter EX4 1NLJ (tel.

0392 430516) would like to hear from PO Tel. Ernie "Jacho" Jackson who left the Navy in 1971.

pore, encountered a Japanese invading force approaching Sumatra and attacked at once with her single 4-in gun. She was sunk after ramming a transport. Lieut. T. S. Wilkinson, RNR, awarded posthumous VC. HM gunboats Dragonfly and Grasshopper sunk

by Japanese aircraft off Sumatra.

15: Singapore surrendered.

16: HM submarine Thrasher bombed by German aircraft off Suda Bay. An unexploded bomb, lodged in the casing, removed by Lieut. P. S. W. Roberts and PO T. W. Gould.

Both awarded VC. 23: HM submarine Trident torpedoed Prinz Eugen off Norway. HM submarine P38 sunk by Italian torpedo boat off Tripoli.

FFS La Combattante sunk by mine in North

Lady in White: Memories of Durban's famous "Lady in White" —the opera singer Perla Siedle Gibson who sang to wartime convoys passing through the South African port — will be shared by a party of British veterans calling there next month. The South Africa Navy will be taking them for a short coastal cruise — and plan to have a Perla Gibson lookalike singing from North Pier on their return. There are a few places left on the 12-day tour (March 16-28} organised by Sam Morley, publisher of her autobiography. Ring 0707 872720 for details.

Combined Services reunion will be held on May 29 at Crewe and Alsager College.

Further details from Mr J. Davies, 6 Mavor Court, Flag Lane, Crewe CW1 3BL (tel 0270 257092).

Aberdeen University RNU: A dinner to celebrate the 25th anniversary will take place in the Elphinstone Hall, University of Aberdeen on May 9. All former members of the Unit are invited to attend. For details contact the Officer-in-Charge, Aberdeen University RNU, Gordon Barracks, Bridge of Don, Aberdeen AB2 8DB (tel 0224 822663).

HMS indefatigable Assn: A mini reunion will be held at the Royal Sailors' Home Club, Portsmouth on February 29. Details from Jack Hibberd, 23 Canterbury Avenue, Southampton SO2 8EB, enclosing sae.

Island of Leros: A 50th anniversary on the island is planned for early autumn 1993.

Anyone interested contact D. Grimwood (ex-Aurora), 49 Mount Gardens, Cleckheaton, Yorks BD19 3QH (tel 0274 875495).

HMS Surges K347: The first reunion will be held at Stoke-on-Trent on May 29. Former shipmates are invited to contact D. Benson, 313 Dividy Road, Bucknall, Stokeon-Trent ST2 OBJ. HMS Swiftsure: Any ship's company interested in 40th anniversary reunion of Helsinki visit in 1952, to be held in September/ October, contact David George, Magnolia, Royce Way, West Wittering, Sussex PO20 8LN (tel 0243 514583).

HMS Leander will be holding their ninth reunion in the SRs' Mess, HMS Drake, on March 28. Further information from Mick Bugden, 7 Wordsworth Avenue, Swalincote, Sth Derbyshire DE11 ODZ (tel 0283 213780).

HMS Middleton L74: The eighth annual reunion will be held at the RNA Club, Leamington Spa on April 25. Further details available for Mike Alston, 6 Belmont Park Road, Maidenhead SL6 6HT (tel 0628 29655} or from the March newsletter.

HMS Matchless (1942-46): The sixth annual reunion will be held at the Victory Services Club, London, on May 16. Ex-shipmates who served on the Matchless from 1942-46 are invited to join the association and attend reunions. Those not on the mailing list contact J. Horton, 16 Mansfield Gardens, Hornchurch, Essex RM12 4NL (tel 04024 42162).

25th Destroyer Flotilla (1943-48): Ships companies of HM ships Grenville, Ulster, Undaunted, Ulysses, Undine, Urania, Urchin, Ursa are invited to attend the sixth reunion at the Rosered Hotel, Blackpool on March 27-29. Details from Eric Buckner, 194 Borland Avenue, Botcnerby, Carlisle, Cumbria.

HMS Mohawk (1939-41): Former shipmates interested in a reunion in Birmingham on April 25 please contact R. A. Bromley, 53 Larkspur Gardens, Old Manor Park, Holbury, Southampton S04 1QH (tel 0703 243175).

HMS Bumham Assn. will hold their next reunion at Burnham-on-Sea in April. Shipmates still not in touch are invited to contact Sam Langford, 50 Drew Gardens. Greenford, Middx UB6 7QG (tel 081 902 9001).

RN Commando Assn: All those who served in HMS Armadillo are invited to attend the 50th anniversary at the Nautical Club, Bishopsgate Street, Birmingham on May 16-17. Telephone Jack Marsh on 021 384 7356 for further details.

Lascaris (Malta) Communicators Assn. will hold their third reunion at the Royal Sailors' Home Club, Portsmouth, on October 3. Membership is open to all branches based in Malta, For details contact Terry Parker, 54c Cheriton Road. Folkestone Kent CT20 1DD (tel 0303 49242).

HMS Duke (Malvern) 1941-46: The thira reunion of the training establishment is being held at Malvern on April 9-12. All interested former ship's company and trainees contact Philip F Brown on 0243 551399.

HMS Cavalier (1961-63): the second reunion of the commission will be held on October 2-3. Those interested contact Mr S C. Anning 14 Kipling Gardens Crownhill Plymouth PL5 3DD (tel 0752 768201).

HMS Bonaventure (1941): A reunion of survivors and families, along with former shipmates of HMS Hereward, will be held at the Royai Fleet Club, Devonport on March 28, followed, on March 29, by a service at the Church of St. Nicholas, HMS Drake.

Advance notification to Wesley Wilton, Harrowbarrow Calhngton, Cornwall PL17 8BQ (tel. 0579 50230).

HMS Kipling: To commemorate the 50th anniversary or the sinking of the ship off Crete on May 11, 1942, a reunion has been arranged at the Ashburn Hotel, Fordingbridge, Hants, on May 11. Details from Eric Clark, 11 Melrose Avenue, Cove, Farnborough, Hants (tel 0252 548853).

HMS Osiris: All ex-senior rates wishing to attend a decommissioning social — date and place to be decided — send an sae to Chief Tiff, HMS Osiris, BFPO 356, North Russia Club: A reunion will be held at the Royal Sailors' Home Club, Portsmouth on March 7. Details from Mervyn Williams, 87 Olive Road, Coxford, Southampton SO1 6FT (tel. 0703 775875) enclosing s.a.e. Anyone interested in attending a reunion of the club in South Wales please also contact Mervyn Williams, as above.

HMS Formidable Assn. celebrated their fifth reunion at the Donington Thistle Hotel, East Midlands Airport and plans are already under way for this year's reunion. Details from David Friesner, General Manager, The Donington Thistle Hotel, East Midlands International Airport, Castle Donington DE7

Sea.

2SA.

25: RAF bombers hit Gneisenau in Kiel.

She was not repaired.

27: Allied squadron engaged Japanese squadron off Java. HM ships Electra and Jupiter, HMNI ships De Ruyter, Java, Kortenaer and Evertsen sunk; HMS Exeter and USS Houston damaged.

28: HMAS Perth and USS Houston engaged with Japanese force in Sunda Strait.

Low in ammunition, they fought until it was expended. Both were sunk.

Taken from the Royal Navy Day by Day.

HMS Fearless: Twenty-five years on, officers of the first commission of HMS Fearless held an anniversary reunion dinner on board the assault ship in Portsmouth.

Thirty-six members of the first commission (1965-68) wardroom attended of whom eight — mainly the original midshipmen — were still serving. Guest of honour was Capt. H. A. Corbett, the first commanding officer of the ship, and the present commanding officer and commander were guests for the evening.

HMS Bullen K469: The fourth reunion will be held at St. Edmund's Hotel, Marine Parade, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, on April 11. Overnight accommodation available if required. Former shipmates not already in touch please contact C. W. Bilverstone, 31 Sands Lane, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft NR32 3ER (tel. 0502 561130).

Aircraft Handlers' Assn. will be holding their reunion at Pontins Barton Hall on May 1-3. Full details from Ian Beard, 6 Meadow Crescent, Castle Donington, Derby DE7 2LX (tel. 0332 850471).

HMS Hydra (1980-82): Members of the ship's company during this time, or any of her "passengers" during the Falklands campaign, interested in a reunion please contact CPO Joe Erskine, The Elms Guest House, 48 Victoria Road South, Southsea P05 2BT (tel. 0705 823924) or HMS Ledbury.

HMS Victorious (1941-45) Assn. will be holding a reunion on May 8-10. Details from Mansel Evans, Bryn Denyn, Lon yn Eglwys, St. Brides Major, Bridgend, Mid. Glam CF32 OSH (tel. 0656 880459).

HMS Glasgow Old Boys' Assn. will be holding a reunion on July 11-12 in Portsmouth. Tickets for the buffet dance, price £7.50, can be obtained from Allan Mercer, 89 Royal Avenue, Widnes, Cheshire WA8 8HJ or D. Hay, RNOC Club, Lake Road, Portsmouth.

HMS Antrim (1982): Any ship's company interested in a 10th anniversary reunion in Portsmouth on April 25 please contact Peter Orchard, 64 Fulmer Road, West Beckton, London E16 3TF (tel. 071 474 0572) or Jumper Collins on 0708 863284.

HMS Serene (1944-46): The annual reunion will take place at the Community Centre, Lingfield, Surrey on April 25. For details contact Mr E. Drummond, 5 Green Way, Scarcroft, Leeds LS14 3BJ (tel. 0532 892222).

The LOG and F Assn. has arranged a first reunion at the Royal Sailors' Home Club, Portsmouth on May 1. For details contact J. Brewin, 15 Rossall Avenue, Little Stoke, Bristol BS12 6JT (tel, 0272 759288).

HMS Khedive (D62) 1945: 808 Air Squadron, air staff and all former ship's company are invited to attend the first reunion to take place during the Burma Star Association's national AGM and conference at Bridlington on September 25-27. For further details telephone Peter Embleton on 0924 400208.

HMS Pytchley (1942): A reunion of the ship's company will take place in September in conjunction with the local RNA branch and people of Kettering who adopted the ship in 1942. For further information contact Ken Thompson, 44 William Street, Kettering, Northants (tel. 0536 518231).

HMS Glory (1945-61): A reunion and agm will be held at the Nautical Club. Birmingham on March 21. Further information from David Wharton, 11 Bentham Avenue, Woking, Surrey GU21 5LF (tel 0483 770140).

Over to You Kranji War Memorial, Bukit Batok and Changi Prison: Mr. W. D. Manders, The School of Infantry, Warminster, Wilts (tel.

Warminster Mil., ext. 2499 or 0935 840618) is visiting Singapore and Malaysia at the end of Feb. and asks if anyone has friends or relatives they wish to have remembered he would be honoured to carry out their wishes.

HMS Warspite Assn.: The association intends to erect a stone memorial at Marazion, Cornwall, in honour of the battleship.

Anyone wishing to support or donate money towards the project please contact Jeff Barker, 15 Turberville Close, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 5ER (tel. 0235 528047). Members of the association were also present at St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, when the ship's ensign, presented to the cathedral by Fleet Admiral Viscount Cunningham of Hyndhope in September 1945, was taken down for restoration work.

HMS Constance Assn. are looking for relatives of Stoker M. (Paddy) Kirk, who was killed on Stonecutter's Island in an explosion in the 1940s. Please contact Mr. A W Clark, 56a Hollywell Street, Hurst Hill, Coseley, West Mids WV14 9HZ. Floating Airfield Honeycomb Units: Kevin Patience, Tech Dive, PO Box 669,

Bahrain, is researching the history and subsequent disposal of the units, known as Lily Ponds. Any information on their disposal and use in East Africa would be gratefully received.

HM ships Lark and Alnwick Castte: On February 17, 1945 the two ships depth charged and sank U425 in the Barents Sea, near Murmansk. One survivor remembers jumping from the U-Boat and subsequently waking up in the Alnwick Castle. He would now like to hear from anyone who may have helped save his life. Contact Herbert Lochner, Gellerstrasse 8, 8250 Meissen, Germany.

HMS Neptune (1941): Adrian Frewins, 28 Delara Way, Woking, Surrey, is researching a book about the Neptune which was sunk on December 19, 1941 and would like to hear from relatives of her ship's company.

HMS Ganges (1939): Mr. J P. Cannon, 31 Duchy Drive, Preston, Paignlon, Devon, TQ3 1HA, would like to buy or borrow a copy of the Shotley magazine for the term ending Easter 1939. Any information relating to 69 Class, Anson Division, 1939, would be welcomed.

RN Cookery Manual (1921): Mr. F. Fountain, 13 Elizabeth Road, Marlow, Bucks SL7 3JF, has a copy of the cookery manual and is willing to forward to anyone interested.

Telephone(0705)822436. Fax(O7O5)293558

QUALITY GARMENTS QUALITY SERVICE ASSOCIATION OF ROYAL NAVY OFFICERS Patron Her Majesty The Queen THE

ARNO. the Officers' Charitable and Social fellowship, is open to all Serving and Retired Commissioned Officers of the RN, RM, WRNS, QARNNS. and their Reserves.

Formed in 1925, ARNO's primary purpose is to assist Members including Honorary Members (the widows of former members) with grants and bursaries from the proceeds of its assets which exceed £1 million, wherever there is a need.

Today the financial advantages of membership comfortably exceed the annual subscription. ARNO offers practical and substantial trade discounts such as a high quality house building and contents insurance scheme at substantial discount and a saving of up to £25 per year on Automobile Association membership, plus legal medical and financial consultations at free or favourable rates.

ARNO also has a programme of social occasions including regional gatherings and a free members' Home Exchange Register. Membership costs £10 per annum or £150 for Life.

For membership application lorm complete fhe following: To: Lf Cdr I M P Coombes RN. ARNO. 70 Porchester Tee, London W2 3TP. Please send me details and a membership application form:

FIFTY YEARS ON A LOOK BACK at the wartime operations of the Royal Navy half a century ago this month.

NEWS from the oceans was still bad. The U-boats were enjoying a "happy time" on the East Coast of the US where a convoy system had not been started.

A total of nearly 700,000 tons (154 merchant ships) was sunk this month in all theatres.

RN pride was hit by the escape up the Channel of the German heavy ships. In the Far East Japanese successes continued.

However, three PQ convoys reached North Russia unscathed and in the Mediterranean submarines operating from Malta sank 30,000 tons of Axis supply shipping.

Principal events included: 2: HMS Westcott sank U-581 SW of the Azores.

5: HMS Arbutus sunk by U-136 on North Atlantic convoy duty.

6: HM ships Rochester and Tamarisk sank U-82 in North Atlantic.

8: Free French ship Alysse sunk by U-654 off Newfoundland.

11: HMCS Spikenard sunk by U-136 in North Atlantic.

12: HMS Maori sunk in air attack on Malta. Gneisenau, Scharnhorst and Prinz Eugen left Brest and escaped to German ports up Channel. Attacks by HM ships Campbell, Vivacious, Worcester (damaged), Mackay and Whitshed and by six Swordfish of 825 Squadron, all of which were lost, failed. 242 RAF bombers, escorted by 156 fighters set out but in the bad weather only 39 managed to attack; there were no hits.

Scharnhorst hit a mine, but was not seriously damaged. Lieut.-Cdr. Eugene Esmonde, Squadron Commander of 825, was awarded posthumous VC. 13: HMS Scorpion sunk by Japanese ships off Singapore. HM submarine Tempest torpedoed by Italian torpedo boat off Taranto.

14: HM Aux. Li Wo. escaping from Singa-

HMS Devonshire (1973-77): The fourth reunion will take place at HMS Phoenix on February 22. Further details from Charlie Moss, 65 Walsby Drive, Regis Park, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 1TT (tel 0795 430851).

RN Korean War Veterans: This years reunion, to be held at RNA Leamington Spa on May 23, is now fully subscribed. Any queries contact Danny Fisher, 36 The Beeches, Salisbury, Wilts SP1 2JH (tel 0722 335754).

HMS Constance (1945-56) Assn. will be holding their first reunion at the RNA Club, Leamington Spa on June 6. New members please send sae to Ernie Balderson, 43 Old Place, Sleaford NG34 7HR or tel 0529 413410.

HMS Lookout: A reunion has been arranged in Burnley on May 16. Those interested contact Buck Taylor. 5 Milton Road, 'Radcliffe, Lanes M26 OGS. HMS Liverpool Assn. are to hold their ninth reunion in the POs Mess, HMS Nelson, Portsmouth on June 13. Members of previous ships' companies from any commission or of any rank are invited to attend.

Further details from John Waters, 2 Dewberry Road, Wordsley, Stourbridge, West Midlands DY8 5XJ (tel 0384 71064).

HMS Gossamer Assn. is still seeking former shipmates from Halcyon Class Sweepers and any other Fleet Sweepers, in particular HMS Harrier who helped in the Edinburgh rescue. Contact E. J. Morris, 40a Edwards Road, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear (tel 091 252 2540).

HMS Kenya Assn. (1940-1962) will be holding a mini reunion in Liverpool on April 10/11. Further details from W. J. Boardman, 35 Holmleigh Road, Childwall. Liverpool L25 2SA (tel 051 487 0093).

1st Destroyer Flotilla Assn. (1942-45) held a successful reunion at the Royal Sailors' Home Club, Portsmouth attended by over 200 people. Anyone who served on Hunt Class destroyers, especially HMS Tetcott, please contact Arthur Renshaw, 1 Western Avenue, Nantwich, Cheshire CW5 7AH.

HMS Crossbow: A reunion is to be held in the Union Jack Club. Waterloo, London, on April 10. Details from B. Edmonds, 129 Church Gate, Southport, Merseyside PR9 7JE (tel 0704 214232).

42nd Naval Aircraft Apprentices, Halton: To mark the 50th anniversary of the passing out parade at RAF Halton a reunion has been planned. Members of that entry please contact Frank Ayling, 36 Wychwood Grove, Chandler's Ford S05 1FQ (tel 0703 268164) as soon as possible.

HMS Nelson (battleship): A seventh reunion will be held in the Victory Club.

HMS Nelson, Portsmouth, on May 9. Anyone who served in the ship and who has not been notified and wishes to attend contact G. Treadwell, 31 Clyde Road, Gosport P012 3DN (tel 0705 521504).

848 Helicopter Sqn, Malaya 1950s: Former members of the squadron are invited to a reunion to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the formation. Details from Les Smith, Oakdale Lodge. Wasthills Lane, Hopwood, Alvechurch B48 7AT. RM Assn. Ramsgate Branch re-dedicated their standard at an open-air drumhead ceremony at RAF Manston. A volunteer band was put together for the day from exRM bandsmen and was led by ex-Drum Major Dave Buchannan. If there is enough interest the band may become semi-permanent — their next event will be the 50th anniversary of the sinking of HMS Cornwall, to be held at Pembroke House in April.

Further details regarding the band are available from RMA, 29 Hardres Street, Ramsgate CT11 8QP. HMS Glamorgan Falklands Reunion: The "10 Years On" reunion will be held in the Pyramid Centre, Portsmouth, on June 13.

Anyone interested in attending please contact Lieut.-Cdr. Alan Watt, Secretary to NBC Clyde, Clyde Submarine Base, Dumbartonshire G84 8HL. Yorkshire Royal Marines: The committees of the four main Yorkshire branches (York, Hull, Doncaster and Bradford) have joined forces to bring together Yorkshire RMs for a reunion to be held on Comacchio Day in April. For further details contact: Bernard Hallas (York), tel 0904 765352; Terry Haider (York), tel 0904 708257; Nobby Clarkson (Hull), tel 0964 542588; W. Bradbury (Doncaster), tel 0226 752451; or Eddy Smith (Bradford), tel 0937 584231.

FAA Assn. Yorkshire Branch held their first Taranto dinner-dance at the Leeds ExServicemen's Club where guest of honour was Mr Hayden Taylor, secretary of the Greater Manchester FAA Association. For further details about the branch contact Jim Tuke, 10 West Grange Road, Bell Isle, Leeds LS10 SAW.

FOUNDED 1821 SAILORS

FAMILIES SOCIETY Patron: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. The Queen Mother

• • • •

Assisting over 250 seafarers' families nationwide Financial assistance Training Residential care for the young and retired Providing holidays Donations gladly received For information leaflet write or phone to:

NEWLAND HOMES, DEPT. NN COTTINGHAM ROAD HULL HUG 7RJ Tel. 0482. 42331 WORLD WAR II REVIEW A newsletter full of news, views and reviews for all those interested in the events of 1939-45. For free sample copy send a stamped, a d d r e s s e d A4 envelope to Broadhead Publishing, Broadhead, Castleshaw, Delph, Oldham OL3 5LZ

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 Options

23

Royal Naval Association

YORK FLIES NATO FLAG WHEN Capt. Roy Clare, commanding officer of HMS York, visited York branch in his role as honorary Commodore of the branch, the visit was marked by an exchange of gifts.

RAF Linton-on-Ouse, and branch president, Capt. Roy Clare, Shipmates Geoff Misketly, branch secretary, and Derrick Watson, chairman.

Copies of the painting were sent to the veterans of HMS York who held their 50th Capt. Clare received an original painting of the Second World War HMS York, painted anniversary reunion last year in York city.

A memento of the reunion — a "Yorkie" by a local artist, and, in return, presented the branch with the NATO flag, flown by the bar, moulded in brass on an oak base suitship during recent exercises in the ably inscribed — was presented by ShipMediterranean. mate Miskelly who organised the veterans Seen here, at the presentation, are, from reunion. left, Cdr. Geoff Harvey, Senior Naval Officer Picture: Yorkshire Evening Post.

Doha extends warm welcome AFTER the disruption of the Gulf War life has returned to normal for shipmates of Doha branch in the State of Qatar. Social life too has resumed its usual pace with much activity during ships' visits.

Thanks to donations from local traders, plus much effort by members of the branch, a raffle at their Trafalgar night dinner dance raised £2,000 for charity. A further £200 was raised during a ship's visit. The branch welcomes visitors passing through Doha — contact them through the B r i t i s h Embassy.

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BRANCH NEWS had a memorable "lamp-swinging" session when they paid a pre-Christmas visit to Pembroke House which was greatly enjoyed by visitors and residents alike.

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Old Salts who served in the S class destroyer HMS Shamrock will be interested to know that the ship's bell is now in the safe haven of Dereham P a r i s h Church. The bell was given to Dereham branch on the death of their president, Cdr. A. Fearn and was presented to Dereham C h u r c h at a dedication.

Shipmates of Torridgeside and Braunton look forward to a St. Valentine's buffet dance, to be hosted by Torridgeside in Braunton parish hall at 1930 on Feb. 15. Tickets are priced £6 and are available from the branch or from Shipmates Len Husband or David Kendrick.

Members of Dover branch

Monmouth branch had the honour of helping to design the

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badge for the latest Type 23 frigate, HMS Monmouth. A party of 25 met members of the ship's company when they attended the ship's launch at Yarrow Shipbuilders. The branch sends thanks for a great outing, especially to Miss Sheila McNeal who kept them in touch with developments during the long months the ship was building. A social evening shared with members of Hereford and Abergavenny branches raised £100 for Cancer Research.

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strong links with the ship and there was a great welcome for Capt. Paul Branscombe, the ship's commanding officer, and Mrs Branscombe, when they were guests of honour at the Falmouth annual dinner dance.

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As HMS Cornwall was commissioned at Falmouth the branch has always retained

Jo's in the chair

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A glowing tribute from Shipmate Roy Jones and his wife, Flo, for the Llandudno club which is described as "one happy crew on board one well run ship." Ron and his wife were strangers to the area when they happened to visit the club but now they are part of the ship's company, thanks to a warm welcome extended by Shipmates George and June Boltings, who run the club.

O D D The 10th Anniversary of Rednith and Camborne gave rise to a great celebration, attended

by Cdr. John Pritchard of RN air Station Culdrose, his wife Susan, shipmates of Helston, St Ives, Penzance, Falmouth and Truro, and friends from the British Legion. Cornish snacks were provided by the ladies section and music for dance and song by Rex Morse, of St Austell. A "thank you" from the branch to the committee, the ladies section and all those who gave their support.

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A "thank you" also to all who attended the laying up of the standard of the late Whitwell branch in St Lawrence Church from Shipmate Chettle.

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One of the ship's bells of HMS Sussex is now in the hands of Romford and Hornchurch branch. They would like to hear from any former shipmate from the Sussex or anyone who can supply old photographs.

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AN electric wheelchair costing £1,800 which was raised by Gloucester branch, has given a new edge to life to Jo Picton who is severely disabled.

Jo, (21), who comes from Hornsey, London, is seen here getting acquainted with the controls of the chair.

With her are Sea Cadet friends of TS Gloucester and, standing, Shipmates Eddie Weaver, treasurer, Sean Byrne, chairman, Ken Goode, PRO of Gloucester branch, and Jo's parents, Mr. and Mrs Picton.

Picture: J. Illingworth-Cooper.

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A limited edition of commemorative envelopes is being issued to mark the 50th anniversary of the raid on St Nazaire.

Each envelope will cost £3 (f9r UK issue) and all proceeds will go to the 1994 Conference Fund. Further details from Shipmate H. A. James, 23 Little Oaks Road, Birmingham B6 6JY.

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Admiral Sir Lindsay Bryson,

is Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, not Kent, as was reported in a picture caption last month.

PEARL HARBOUR REMEMBERED THE annual service and parade, organised by the Southendon-Sea branch, commemorating the US servicemen who died at Pearl Harbour on December 7, 1941, attracted a big attendance this year, the 50th anniversary of the attack.

Over 500 shipmates, including US sailors and Marines displaying 30 standards and the Stars and Stripes, marched to St Mary's Church, Prittlewcll, to music by the Junior Band of the Royal Marines.

The service, conducted by the chaplain of the Southendon-Sea branch, the Rev. Roger Mason, was attended this year by 36 US airmen and their families who, after the service, were

e n t e r t a i n e d in branch headquarters.

Southcnd-on-Sea has marked the anniversary of Pearl Harbour for the past 12 years and has established a special relationship with the Pearl Harbour Memorial Staff.

They also have a special citation of merit from the US Government thanking them for holding the parade, the only group outside the USA to do so.

THE ROYAL NAVY OF WWII ON VIDEO New release ... 'PERILOUS WATERS' ... being part 6 A year in preparation this 60 mins. episode must be one of the most dramatic RN programmes ever produced on the Battle of Atlantic, with Corvettes, Frigates, Four-Stackers, Walker's Escort Groups, plus other warships incl. the RCN, U-boats and MM. Unlike anything seen on TV this rare archive film is brought to life in a manner you will have never before experienced!

UK price £21.90 post-paid. Foreign/Overseas £24.95 sent Airmail.

For details of 5 previous RN video releases send SAE N.V.T.C.. BECK HOUSE. ESCRICK. N. YORKS YO4 6JH (0904) 87239

WJMML GH 4 Irtglewood Close, Bognor Regis. Wesl Sussex PO21 4LA Telephone 0243 267CM1 (10 lines). Fax 0243 266739

THE COMPLETE HOLIDAY & TRAVEL SERVICE

PLEASE CONTACT US FOR UP TO DATE INFORMATION ON FERRY AND FLIGHT CONCESSIONS OUR ADVANCED COMPUTER BOOKING SYSTEMS ARE ABLE TO OFFER A FAST, FLEXIBLE SERVICE FOR ALL ABTA/IATA/ATOL HOLIDAY AND TRAVEL PACKAGES TO INCLUDE COACH, CAR HIRE AND HOTELS HMS NELSON (0705) 874128 Ex: 23744/24167 Branch Offices at: 8th Signal Rest Catterick Garrison Mil Ext 2617 --R Tp S Mov Lisbum Garrison Mil Ext 41821

SIMONSTOWN REVISITED

A unique opportunity to'revisit the 14 days departing in October / November 1992.

Write or phone for full itinerary and prices.

SIMOttSTOWn BASE on an escorted holiday to the Cape. Renew acquaintances AIR TICKETS ALWAYS AVAILABLE FOR SOUTH AFRICA and revive happy memories.

Enjoy too a wonderful choice of The Coach House, other holiday options during your visit Wragmire, Cotehill, Carlisle, CA4 ODD. exploring the Cape and other parts of Telephone (0228)560446 Pax (0228) 562360 Southern Africa.

ABTA • A division of Ashley Adams Travel Ltd. - LATA

Africa tip*

More than 400 convoys, 45,000 ships and six million serving personnel in World War Two passed through South African ports en route to and from Mediterranean and Far Eastern war zones. One half of them stopped at Durban. Of those that did and still walk this earth today, few will have forgotten its legendary lady in White'.

Perla Siedle Gibson, international soprano, classical pianist, R.A. portrait painter - Durban's lady in White' - died in March 1971, at the age of 82. On 23 April 1991 (St. George's Day) her autobiography . . .

DURBAN'S LADY IN WHITE

- a 240-page hardback with 54 illustrations, 12-page Appendix of ships she welcomed into Durban between July 1940 and August 1945, and a comprehensive Index - was launched for the first time in U.K. bookshops at £14.95.

But RN, RAF, Army and MN veterans of those days and their dependants, can buy direct from the publishers, below, at £12.95 post free U.K. only Elsewhere add £1.50 surface mail, £5.00 airmail. Allow 7 days for despatch.

Send 25p |in stamps) for Information Folder or £1 50 for 4-colour Souvenir Handbook featuring 14 photographs and over 2,000 words of text-extracts.

Aedificamus Press, 113 The Ridgeway, Northaw, Potters Bar, Herts EN64BG. Telephone: (0707) 872720.

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

A/A/

Accommodation

Garian House Holiday Flatlets

Hampshire Court Hotel

Self-catering flatlets, near sea and shops. Fully equipped. Colour TV, fridge, cooker, linen, etc. Ideal for a visit by family or girl friend.

MINIMUM 2 PERSONS OR CHARGE FOR Charge r WEEKLY JULY & AUGUST .... £60 per I WEEKLY OTHER MONTHS £50 person 1 NIGHTLY £10 v- Deposit: £10 per person Cheques accepted with bankers card ALL WITH OWN BATHROOM AND TOILET Guests, who anticipate a late arrival, should inform the management (0705-733581) s.a.e. please giving dates and number CURTIS, 70 RESTING GROVE, SOUTHSEA, PORTSMOUTH 733581

30 Hampshire Terrace — Portsmouth PO1 2PF Close to H.M. Dockyard and Barracks, Portsmouth railway and bus stations.

Well appointed rooms with double glazing, full central heating, h&c handbasins, electric fires, fitted carpets, modern divan beds. Colour television lounge, own keys, car park. No restrictions. Full English breakfast.

Single rooms with breakfast Double rooms with breakfast Double with private shower

from £14 from £25 £26

Telephone Portsmouth 823522

h A/A* Beaufort Hotel 71 Testing Road

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19 En-suite bedrooms

Southsea

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Satellite TV

PO4 ONQ

if Telephone if

SPECIAL

Hair driers

if Tea/Coffee facilities in every room

RATES FOR REUNIONS

GLADYER INN All booking requirements in writing only, enclosing £5 deposit on each Family Room enclose a S.A.E. for your receipt.

ACCOMMODATION: For Service Personnel, their families and dependants plus ex. serving personnel and R.N.A. members who may be visiting the Plymouth area.

Easy walking distance yard Video - Jukebox - Pool - Darts - Live entertainment PUBLIC BAR - LOUNGE - FUNCTION SUITE 21 twin-double rooms all en suite Reasonable rates Telephone 0383 419977 Fax 0383 411728 THE ELMS

SOUTHSEA

ASK FOP QUOTATION, CONTACT THE MANAGER WITHOUT DELAY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT

Guest House 48 Victoria Road South, Southsea.

(Residential Licence) Family run Guest House, only 5 minutes from beach and nightlife B&B, holiday or short stay Colour TV and tea/coffee facilities in all rooms TV lounge, cosy bar; close to Naval Base, ferries, stations and shops Own keys Limited parking

SUPPORT YOUR CLUB

Paddy and John (Joe) Erskine Portsmouth (0705) 823924

EVERLEY GUEST HOUSE 33 Resting Road, 0705 731001 * Satellite/Colour TV all rooms if Own keys, no restrictions ir Tea-making all rooms if Family rooms/en-suite available ir 2 mins to seafront ir Discount to Service personnel

FUNCTIONS: We cater for all types of functions at very competitive prices. Ships Functions, Mess Parties, Wedding Receptions, Reunions of ships, past and present, we offer an ideal facility.

AUSTIN HOTEL 55 Clarence Parade. Southsea PO5 2HX Portsmouth 0705 821815 Car park, licensed bar. AA and RAC listed. Double and family rooms with loilet and shower en suite, colour TV and tea-making facilities. Excellent position for seafront and entertainments.

Jean and Edward Fry

PLYMOUTH**** (0752) 229705

3 CLARENCE PARADE SOUTHSEA Licensed Welcomes the Royal Navy All rooms bright and modern Colour TV in all rooms, central heating, seafront position. No restrictions Discount allowed for Serving Personnel Telephone Portsmouth 821785

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OSMOND GUEST HOUSE 42 PIER ST, WEST HOE --' BfcO & BREAKFAST — 25 YDS SEAFRONT — TV T F A / C O F F t E MAKING — SOME EM-SUITE COURTESY PICKUP FROM STATIONS FOUR POSTER BED — OPEN ALL YEAR PUBLIC CAR PARK AT REAR

PLYMOUTH CHESTER GUEST HOUSE 54 STUART ROAD PENNYCOMEQUICK 0752 663706 * Lock-up Parking * Licensed * Very close to rail, City centre & bus route HMS Raleigh/Dockyard and within walking distance ol Dockyard *• Colour TV, Tea/Coffee making facilities all bedrooms, some en suite if Full CH

PLYMOUTH SAINT MALO LICENSED GUEST HOUSE 19 Garden Ores.. West Hoe All rooms with colour TV. tea—coffee making facilities and central heating.

Bed and breakfast. Evening meal available. Close to railway and bus station.

Tel: Delphine James 0752 262961

CANTERBURY BELL GUEST HOUSE 29 St. Simon's Road, Southsea Friendly family-run guest house, near all entertainment, sea & shops. Central heating, TV all rooms, tea and coffee making facilities, own keys, no restrictions. B&B Holiday or short breaks.

Mrs. Catriona Randall (0705) 826917 "Away Days in Plymouth" Small friendly Guest House overlooking the Hoe and Seafront A good bed and 4-course breakfast, colour TV, tea/coffee facilities, c.h., en-suite rooms available.

From £24 Double, £13 Singles Telephone for brochure 0752 660675 EDGCUMBE GUEST HOUSE 50 Pier Street, West Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3BT ORLANDO. FLORIDA — l u x u r \ .1 bcd/2 bathroom bungalow for rental.

Fully furnished and sleeps 8. own private" pool. Close to attractions and convenient for Canaveral and beaches. P h o n e 0 7 5 2 2 5 6 0 4 1 for details.

PLYMOUTH

Mountbatten Hotel 52 Exmouth Road, Stoke, Plymouth PL1 4QH FAMILY-OWNED HOTEL IN QUIET CUL-DE-SAC if Colour TV, Tea/Coffee facilities all rooms if Some bedrooms en suite ir Licensed bar ~k Evening dinner optional *• Parking available * ETB 2 Crowns if Walking distance Naval Base & Fleet Club

PLYMOUTH HOE ST LA WRENCE OFST JAMES'S 16 St James Place West The Hoe, Plymouth PL1 3AT Friendly, family-run Guest House, near new Pavillions, Colour TV, Tea/Coffee facilities. Showers, own key, no restrictions Colleen & Larry 0752 671901

PLYMOUTH THE DENVER

112A North Road East Plymouth PL4 6AW Friendty, family run guest house offering bed and breakfast. Full central heating TV lounge, own key. two minutes from station and city centre.

TELEPHONE 0752 660687

SHROPSHIRE COURT GUEST HOUSE 33 Granada Road, Southsea Friendly family run Guest house, 2 mins. from sea and entertainments. Close to ferries, naval base, shops, etc. Own keys, TV lounge, no restrictions, B&B. Holiday or short stay.

Mrs. Pat Green (0705) 731043

Telephone 0752 563843

CLARENDON HOTEL RUMOURS RESTAURANT Clarendon Rd, Southsea Tel: 0705-732586 Fully refurbished to the highest of standards 43 Bedrooms, TV, tea/coffee, telephone 156 seater A la Carte restaurant Disco, dance floor 2 bars, 60 seater restaurant Special rates for Navy & families from £12.50 B&B (inclusive)

ST ANNS SOUTHSEA 17 Malvern Road if Family run. licensed GH * HC, CH & TV all rooms ir B&B, opt eve meal if Teamaking facilities * 2 mins seafront, pier, rock gdns, & Pyramids JEAN COLLICK (0705) 827173 M A L I A, MELL1EHA, L u x u r y 2bedroom Hats to let. Sleeps 4-5, one mile from the best beach in Malta and close to local a m e n i t i e s . Flights can be arranged. Telephone 081-567 5824.

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Tel:

0752 669161

EMPTY ROOMS? Fill your vacancies through Navy News Over a quarter million readers every month For further details: Tel: (0705) 826040 Fax: (0705) 830149

Open AH Yew SI WAVERLEY ROAD, SOUTHSEA HANTS PO5 2PJ (0705) 828325 Ann and John invite you to their friendly guest house, car park, fully centrally heated, colour TV and coffee and tea in all rooms. Close to all entertainments. Own keys.

Tel. Falmouth (0326) 312852 Superb position for town, railway station, harbour & all entertainments. Two minutes from sandy beaches & coastal walks. Alt rooms en-suile with TV and tea/coffee facilities. Table licence.

INVERKEITHING Boreland Lodge Private Hotel 31-33 Boreland Rd., Inverkeithing 1V6m Rosyth Dockyard. En-suite accommodation in 20 comfortable and modern bedrooms all with Satellite TV and tea/coffee making facilities.

From £13.50 B&B Telephone 0383 413792 FAX 0383 413942 NORTH WALES STONELEIGH GUEST HOUSE Where the helpings of good home cooling are almost is big as the welcome! * All rooms colour, satellite TV ir Tea-nukinK facilities * Parking front and rear * Central (Ex-RN POME)

10 St David's Rd., Llandudno LL30 2UL (0492) 875056

HAMILTON HOUSE 95 Victoria Road North, Southsea. PO5 1PS Pleasant tamily run guest house Bright, modern, centrally heated rooms with CTV & tea facilities 5 mins Navai base, centres, station & ferry port Bed & breakfast £14 00 per person nightly En-suite rooms also available Tel:

RAC

Graham & Sandra Tubb (0705) 823502

•HOTEL. ANTOINETTE

THE THREE TIERS

26 BEAUFORT ROAD, KINGSTON UPON THAMES, SURREY KT1 2TQ Telephone 081-546-1044 ALL ROOMS WITH BATHROOM. AND FAMILY ROOMS ARE AVAILABLE Three Licensed Restaurants. Car Park & Landscaped Gardens.

12 miles S.W, of Central London, w h i c h is e a s i l y accessible by public transport. Close to Hampton Court, Windsor, Chessington World of Adventure and many famous Sporting Venues.

10% DISCOUNT GIVEN ON PRODVCIION Of THIS ADVERTISEMENT

GUEST HOUSE

PLYMOUTH 41 North Road, East Your Hosts John • Glenys Saunders Telephone 0752 228483 Close to city centre railway station and naval establishments. Own keys, no restrictions, all rooms have satellite TV, tea/coffee making facilities and central heating, open all year, full English breakfast, opt evening meal. £12 per person B&B

E 17.50 B *B

ACCOMMODATION AND FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST £21.00 per person in a double/twin £2600 per person in a single

JANET POWELL (0752) 661195

contact General Manager, China Fleet Club, Royal Navy, c/oHMSTAMAR BFPO 7

— PORTSMOUTH** WESTFIELD HALL HOTEL Small, friendly, family run hotel where comfort is our first concern REUNIONS!

your

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tV I icensed Bar •& All rooms ensuite & WE DO THE WORK — Direct Dial Phones & Tea/Coffee Bar •& YOU HAVE THE FUN Large t a r park -fr Hair dryers & Satellite TV 65 FESTING ROAD SOUTHSEA, HANTS P04 ONS (O7O5) 826971 Fax (07O5) 8702OO

PORTSMOUTH! i l!i SANDRINGHAM £ \

Urevu House Hotel #£V PROPRIETORS: fc£j| ERIC & JEAN EUSTICE ^^ 45 MELVILL ROAD FALMOUTH, CORNWALL TR11 4DC

PORTSMOUTH ONLY per p son The above SPECIAL DISCOUNTED RATES are offered from Thursday-Sunday inclusive lor one night or more Built in 1879, the privately owned Grand Hotel retains many of the original Victorian architectural details typical of the period Conveniently situated on Plymouth Hoe, with 76 en-suite bedrooms, it is a comfortable base to visit your relatives. PRIVATE FUNCTIONS — We also cater for 21st Birthdays. Engagements and Weddings '

For further information please

Crowns

PLYMOUTH HOE R£C Lockyer St, PL1 2QD Telephone: (0752) 227311 Elegant Victorian Building with 22 Bedrooms — 5 Ground floor.

Nautical Flavour Cocktail Bar. Colour TV Radio Tea/Coffee/Telephone all rooms.

Most en suite. Large car park.Navy News Readers 10% Accommodation Discount. All Credit Cards accepted Brochure 4 or Booking contact: Lt. Cdr Alan Jones RNR (Ret'd) "A 'Personal Service' Comlortable Hotel %•

The Astor Hole! AA Elliot Street ** The Hoe Plymouth

HOTEL

HIGH COMFORT — LOW COST SPECIAL RATES FOR NAVAL PERSONNEL £20 pp per night, B&B Seafront Hotel, 45 bedrooms all en-suite. Close to Shops, Dockyard. Naval Base Wedding Receptions and Sunday Lunch a speciality

OSBORNE ROAD SOUTHSEA 0705 826969

T>T V"MY"Yr IT1!! **c rLt I MU U 1 II * * *

ASTOR HOTEL

TELEPHONE (0752) 225511 FAX (0752) 251994

Situated on the famous Hoe, close to the city centre, this well equipped and elegantly furnished hotel offers, first class accommodation, food, wines and most importantly, friendly courteous service whatever the occasion may happen to be. ir Overnight accommodation and full English breakfast from £19.50 pp * ACCOMMODATION 56 well appointed bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, colour W, radio, tea/coffee making facilities and telephone FUNCTIONS: We will cater for all types of function at very competitive prices. Weddings, Mess dinners, Reunions up to 120 max.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING

GUEST HOUSE 35 North Road East

PLYMOUTH

Guest House =

Your local travel agent should be consulted regarding air fares

YOU

PORTSMOUTH

RIGSBY'S All facilities — Nr city centre

ALBATROSS :

REDUCED RATES FOR NAVY NEWS READERS

The new CHINA FLEET CLUB — ROYAL NAVY — HONG KONG Without doubt the most modern and comprehensive Royal Navy club in the world All serving and ex RN/ RM/ WRNS/ QARRNS ratings through! the world are eligible to use the club. Room rates are very competitive. Each room (38 in number) of first class hotel quality, contains twin beds, en suite bathroom, TV, and telephone.

ROSYTH Morice Square Devonport Plymouth PL1 4PG Telephone Inquiries only Plymouth 0752 562723

Acclaimed

Tel: 0705 823707 Fax: 0705 870270

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*

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*.

(Twin/Double)

Extended special offer for all Naval Personnel 0 144 bedrooms with en suite shower/w.c 0 Colour TV/radio • Tea/Coffee facilities • Bar/restaurant

RRCflD€

WINSTON CHURCHILL AVE., PORTSMOUTH (0705) 821992

HOMELEA HOTEL 18-24 Worthing Road, Southsea PROBABLY THE BEST VALUE IN TOWN! Completely refurbished Superb rooms, many with private shower, colour TVs, radio alarms, tea-making facilities, Four Poster bridal suite available Olde-worlde restaurant and bar Available for parties (up to 100 persons). Wedding receptions our speciality Tel 0705 826506/730457 Fax 0705 291072

SOUTHSEA SOLENT HOTEL

14-17 SOUTH PARADE (Opp. Pyramids) Tel: (0705) 291577/875566 SPECIAL RATES FOR ALL SERVICE PERSONNEL & FAMILIES From C14.95 B+B per person * Seafront position ir 53 bedrooms, ensuites available * Colour TV, tea & coffee facilities, telephone * Bar/Carvery Restaurant * Games rooms — full size snooker table

-PLYMOUTH-x

THE TEVIOT GUEST HOUSE 20 North Rd. East, 0752 262656 Mrs Jean Fisher Close to city centre, railway. Barbican and Hoc. HMS Raleigh 4 m on bus route. En-suite available. CTV. CH.j H&C, & r Tea/Coffee facilities. *

ROSYTH ROYAL SAILORS' RESTS FERRYTOLL ROAD (OPPOSITE HMS COCHRANE)

For Service Personnel and their Families Family En-Suites with Double/Twin beds H&C, Colour TV in all rooms Car park Telephone 0383 413770

SOUTHSEA HARMONY GUEST HOUSE Residential dunks licence • H&C • TV in all rooms

Comfortable residents lounge • Separate dining room (licensed) • Close to South Parade Pier and Rock Gardens • Families and children welcome Special rates for RN and RNA Stella Western, Harmony Cues: Home, 11« Mal.ern Road, Southjea P05 2L7

(0705) 821696

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NAVY NEWS. FEBRUARY 1992

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Accommodation

FRANCE SOUTH BRITTANY COAST Ex PO Chef and family, offer bed breakfast and evening meal in their comfortable, licensed farmhouse, en-suite rooms, 2 minutes from sea, in quiet countryside.

Tel: Terry or Jill Williams 010-33-98-39-62-82 Fax: 010-33-98-39-78-09

ORLANDO FLORIDA

Brand new luxury 4 double bedroom house with 30ft private pool, facing south onto a lake, just completed Most dates available, 20 minutes from Disney and Orlando airport Discounts for Feb/Mar/May/June 1992 For brochure Telephone 0425 271716

SALISBURY HOTEL 57-59 Festing Road, Southsea, Portsmouth P04 ONO Tel: Southsea (0705) 823606 - Fax: 820955

if if •fc 1r ir

Most rooms with Private facilities All rooms colour TV, telephone, clock radio and C.H. Extremely comfortable, luxurious surroundings Restaurant, licensed bar, large car park Weekend breaks and Christmas package available

THE HOTEL YOU WILL CONFIDENTLY COME BACK TO GOSPORT "CHERRY TREES" 15 Linden Grove, Alvcrstpkc. Family run guest house. ETB registered. English breakfast, h/c. tea-making, TV all rooms, children welcome, close ferry, HMS Sultan and Dolphin. Rates £10 per night. Contact Lin or Steve Gell 0705 521543.

FLORIDA, Gulf Coast, f u l l y f u r nished and equipped bungalow, sleeps 4/5, weekly maid service, convenient for attractions, close to beaches, golf courses, etc. £225 per week inclusive.

Tel: 0892 36437 (evenings).

WHEN REPLYING TO ADVERTISEMENTS PLEASE MENTION NAVY NEWS

CHINA FLEET COUNTRY CLUB SALTASH, CORNWALL if 40 self-catering holiday apartments ir Prices from £10 per day per apartment ir 4-berth units contain twin beds in bedroom and double sofa bed in lounge l:or application if 6-berths have two bunk beds in second forms and enquiries bedroom CHINA FLEET if Fully fitted kitchen, television, video, COUNTRY telephone, central heating all included in CLUB, price SALTASH, if Temporary membership given to ex-ratings, CORNWALL serving and ex-officers residing outside 50 PL12 6LJ miles (£2 per day or £10 per week) Telephone: BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN (0752) 848668

-GOSPORT— THE SEAFARER GUEST HOUSE

* WEEKEND SPECIAL JANUARY-MARCH * PAY FRIDAY & SATURDAY — STAY SUNDAY FREE * COLOUR TV AND TEA TRAYS ALL ROOMS * ENSUITE/FAMILIES ROOM AVAILABLE * CLOSE TO SULTAN, DOLPHIN & HASLAR

9 BURY ROAD, GOSPORT, HANTS TEL: 90705) 522883

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HOTEL FOR THE ROYAL NAVY 5 GREENHILL, WEYMOUTH DT4 7SR Bought for the Royal Navy by the people of Natal after the Second World War. Fifty yards from the beach, half a mile from the shops and station. Fine sands and safe swimming.

Available only to naval and ex-naval personnel, including R.M., W.R.N.S., Q.A.R.N.N.S., their famlies and relatives. Licensed bar. Children and pets welcome. Lift to all floors. Many en-suite bedrooms. Laundry facilities.

Telephone 0305 784108 REMEMBER — This hotel is yours — come and enjoy it!

NAVY NEWS ADVERTISING RATES WHOLE PAGE HALF PAGE QUARTER PAGE SINGLE COL. CM

£1,800* £975* £550* (mm acceptable 25 cms)

£11.50*

* Plus VAT at 17'/2% For full details please contact LESLEY WILLIAMS, NAVY NEWS, HMS NELSON Telephone: Portsmouth (0705) 826040 Fax: (0705) 830149

'NM H.M. FORCES T.SHIRTS & SWEATSHIRTS Specialist Print & Design • service from one of the UKs most advanced promotional garment printers ir All work & delivery guaranteed ir Wide range styles/colours if No minimum order t^\ ' * UK & Worldwide delivery <5<2L X) ir Cartoon/caricature service fyjj * Free Brochure''Price List

"^r\

-%?

UNIT 1.

21-25 THIRD AVENUE MANOR PARK. LONDON E12 50X TEl: DI1 553 ItU FAX: Oil 553 9115

M.G. TRAVEL CARS For all your travel arrangements

if Collection to and from Airports ir * Long Distance Runs * London from £32.50 A friendly and competitive service Ex-RN Serviceman

* Waterlooville (0705) 256486 Mobile 0831 553301

SOUVENIR COVERS

Regular stock list (80+ pages) of souvenir covers covering the Royal Navy, RAF, Army, Concorde. First Flights, Railway, Football.

First day covers etc. with autographs.

WINGFIELDS P.O. Box 1, Thetford, Norfolk Telephone (0264) 810940 P.T.S. Member

"DREADNOUGHT"

FACING REDUNDANCY? LEFT THE SERVICE?

Prints from an original drawing 75 "x 23" £9.45 (inc. p&p) To: HOPKINS (PM) 14 Windermere Road Torquay, Devon JQ1 3RH

OOPS - SORRY! NAVY NEWS wishes to apologise for the printing error relating to the postcard size in the December advertisement, n should have read 5K" x 3K".

START A SHIP OF THE MONTH COLLECTION Build an exciting and interesting collection of photographs of ships of the Royal Navy

If you have left the Navy since January 1, 1986 or are leaving in the next 12 months

LOST MEDALS REPLACED IN RECORD TIME FULL SIZE & MINIATURE 3 DAY MOUNTING SERVICE

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This month's featured ship is the Mine Hunter, HMS Kellington

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Ship Search, 17 Kenmere Road, Welling, Kent. DA16 1PD Telephone 081 298 1113 (24 hrs)

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To receive a postcard picture of her and of the next eleven featured ships, simply will in the coupon and send with your cheque/P.O. to the address below.

Each month you will receive a glossy photograph helping you to build a comprehensive and interesting collection.

POSTCARDS CAN ALSO BE PURCHASED INDIVIDUALLY AT A COST OF 50p each (minimum order £1.50) including postage.

For all your team and sportswear requirements Ring Audrey Campbell on

HINDHEAO 0428 605659

ST PETERSBURG — Battleship "Aurora", Naval Yards, Museum, Port, Kronstadt Naval Base. Vyborg Shipyards.

ORDER NOW! BEAT INFLATION!

For a quotation or to arrange a visit Oakwood, Church Lane, Grayshott,

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Navy News

DTP K M I S H O I D K H Y SERVICES

Hindhead, Surrey GU26 6LY

WELFARE GARAGE HMS NELSON if * ir *

Mechanical Electrical Bodywork Servicing for all types of cars Also Diagnostic Tuning etc MOT's arranged

Tel DOCKYARD EXT 24236 PORTSMOUTH 824802

23 JULY — 2 AUGUST 1992 Tour includes Navy Day Parade & Festival in St Petersburg.

Enjoy sightseeing, shopping with optional theatre visit in St Petersburg.

Cost: £880 — 11 days in St Petersburg/Murmansk. £745 — 8 days in St Petersburg Includes: air travel ex London; hotel accommodation; all meals; transfers; train tickets; local Naval Guides.

Limited to 30 places. CONTACT:

George Pick Tours: 83A London Road, Leicester LE2 OPF.

Tel: 0533 540588

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

h NM

Education

NN HAVE YOU CONSIDERED CHIROPODY AS A PROFESSION? Chiropody offers the prospect of substantial earnings to those who obtain a professional qualification.

Since 1919 this School has successfully trained many thousands of chiropodists.

Currently, public demand considerably exceeds supply, thus ensuring continued prosperity lo qualified chiropodists.

Age is no barrier. Initial training is by the open study method (combining home study with supportive lectures and full practical training) allowing progressive change to your personal lifestyle.

Write or phone now, for our fully descriptive prospectus and learn about the interesting and rewarding career in chiropody.

The School of Surgical Chiropody THE SMAE INSTITUTE

Dept. NN, The New Hall, Bath Rd, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 4LA Tel: (0628) 21 1 00 <24hr«> or 32449 (9om-5 P m only)

Cawston College An Associated Woodard School Day, Boarding and Weekly Boarding Boys and Girls Aged 11-18 Cawston, a small co-educational Independent School, set in 125 acres of grounds with 22 acres of playing fields, offers small classes and traditional values. The college is justifiably proud of the specialist Dyslexia Department where a limited number of pupils are offered one-to-one help.

Special terms for Service Families For further details, prospectus or appointment to visit please contact: The Headmaster's Secretary, Cawston College, NR10 4JD. Telephone Norwich 871341 Headmaster John Sulton B.A. R.N.

St Petroc's School , Ocean View Road Bude Cornwall EX23 8NJ Telephone 0288 352876

Headmaster: P. W. Blundell, B.A., A.C.P., Cert. Ed., I.A.P.S. Member

FULL BOARDING FOR UNDER £10 A WEEK*

BEMBRIDGE SCHOOL Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5PH Co-Educational Boarding & Day School 300 Pupils Senior School 13-18 Separate Junior School 7-13 if if if if if if

Small classes and emphasis on individual attention Excellent teaching facilities with wide range of subjects offered Specialist help for children with dyslexia Sailing, Golf Course, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Beautiful coastal setting with 100 acres of grounds Supervised transport to and from the Island

OAKWOOD SCHOOL IAPS Preparatory School (7-13) For boys (Boarding and Day) and Girls (Days only) (Pre-Prep, Boys and Girls 3-7)

SCHOLARSHIP EXAMINATION FRIDAY 21 FEBRUARY, 1992 for children between the ages of 6 and 11.

Apply now for entry forms and details from The Bursar, Oakwood School, Chichester, PO18 9AN

PIPERS CORNER SCHOOL Great Kingshill High Wycombe Bucks HP15 6LP Telephone: (0494) 718255

Pipers stands in 36 acres of attractive grounds and is a GSA Boarding School for 380 girls (8-18 years)

Give your child the opportunity of learning in really small classes with plenty of individual attention A really wide-ranging curriculum is on offer from swimming to C.D.T. to French Parents receive written reports every three weeks

Bursaries and Sixth Form Scholarships are available Full details and prospectus from the Secretary

The school provides a family atmosphere, marvellous environment and a high standard of discipline

Wilton House School

*St Petroc's accepts the full Services Boarding School Allowance as payment of fees (B.S.A. £1480 and parents' contribution £165 per term).

Battle, Hastings .East Sussex TN33 9BS. 0424 83234

Upper Chine School Headmistress: Dr Helen Harvey BSc PhD

SHANKLIN, ISLE OF WIGHT Independent G S A Boarding and Day School for Girls from 3-18 years Many girls from naval families. Pupil/staff ratio 8:1 Entrance and sixth form scholarships, bursaries, drama and music awards available For a free prospectus write or telephone (0983) 862208/864822

CLAYESMORE SCHOOL Iwerne Minster, Blandford, Dorset DT11 8LL Co-educational Boarding and Day SENIOR SCHOOL 13-18 PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4-13 Continuity of education on a beautiful 60-acre campus in the heart of Dorset, yet within easy reach of London and the airports. Armed services, foreign service and overseas parents especially catered for with a high standard of pastoral care.

Academic, Music, Art and Games Scholarships available.

Bursaries for Service Families.

HEADMASTER SENIOR SCHOOL: D. J. BEEBY, MA. Tel 0747 812122 HEADMASTER PREP SCHOOL: H. D. WATSON, MA. Tel 0747 811707

ADVICE ON BOARDING EDUCATION Service parents who wish to seek advice on boarding schools suitable for their children may communicate direct, or through their Unit Education Officers, with SCEA (Advisory Service) HQ Director of Army Education, Court Road, Eltham London SE9 5NR (Tel: 081-854 2242 Ext. 4277/4279). Parents are normally requested to complete a questionnaire before advice is given. Copies are available from Education Officers or from SCEA la at the above address.

With a record of academic and sporting success that is highly regarded by our parents, West Buckland's stimulating environment can help bring out the best in your child. Set on the edge of Exmoor, West Buckland is the only independent co-educational school in North Devon that can offer boys and girls educational continuity from the age of 5 through to University entrance. Day pupils and boarders are equally welcome.

Special terms are offered to members of H.M. Forces.

Further details and prospectus from The Headmaster (0983) 872101

Give your child an excellent chance of achieving his, or her, full potential Give yourself peace of mind knowing that your son, or daughter, is being well looked after, no matter where you are in the world

The Headmaster will be happy lo send you a prospectus or arrange a visit.

An atmosphere that encourages development

Co-educational boarding and day school Head office and senior school: Catsfield Place, Battle.

QCSE 'A' Levels 13-18 years Junior school: Broomham, Guestling, Hastings. 5-13 years.

Small classes. Remedial and individual tuition arranged when required.

Computer workshop, swimming pools, tennis courts, games fields and horse riding. Escort services to and from airports. Special terms for Service children additional to Service grants.

Established since 1954.

Apply: The Principal at head office

TO SERVE THEM ALL THEIR DAYS. If you would like to visit the school or receive a prospectus, please contact: The Headmaster's Secretary, West Buckland School, Barnstaple, EX32 OSX. Tel: Filleigh (0598) 760281

MICKLEFIELD SCHOOL : SEAFORD EAST SUSSEX BN25 4LP Tel: 0323 892457 (Founded

1910)

A friendly, caring school able to provide your daughter with a first class all round education in a traditional disciplined atmosphere.

• Full and weekly boarding 7-18 years • Small classes: highly qualified staff • National Curriculum: good academic record • Excellent facilities for Drama, Music and Sport • Generous Service bursaries • A coach operates between the school and Portsmouth

BOARDING SCHOOL for boys and girls aged 4-16 Service children very welcome and very well looked after by understanding and committed house parents.

Excellent food and boarding accommodation. Excellent sports facilities. Fees in line with B.S.A.

For prospectus apply to the Headmaster

EMBLEY PARK SCHOOL Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6ZE — Telephone (0794) 512206 INDEPENDENT BOYS' SCHOOL FOR BOARDERS AND DAY BOYS Aged 11-18 Good general education in small friendly school. Good facilities for sport and Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Some Service Bursaries available.

For prospectus apply to the Headmaster

SEAFORD COLLEGE 360 Boys 11 to 18

SCHOLARSHIPS Academic, Choral, Music, Art & Games for 13+ Choral only for 11+ DAY GIRLS IN THE 6th FORM SEPT 1992 Contact the Registrar, Seaford College Petworth, West Sussex GU28 ONB Telephone: 07986 392

Our Lady & St John School Beach Road, Hayling Island PO11 OAD Telephone (0705) 463759

WARMINSTER SCHOOL Coeducational, Day and Boarding 5 to 18 years old 500 pupils Warminster provides continuity of education across the full age range within a small, friendly community.

Small class sizes, excellent facilities.

Prospectus can be obtained from:

Warminster School, Church Street, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 8PJ Tel: (0985) 213038

MAYVILLE HIGH SCHOOL If high academic standards and traditional values of discipline and courtesy appeal to you, then visit Mayville High School where pupils are educated in a caring environment. Of particular benefit to busy working parents is our after school service caring for pupils up until 5.30 p.m.

Boys 3-6 years. Girls 3-16 years.

Further details from: The Headmistress, Mayville High School, Kenilworth Lodge, St Simons Road, Southsea, Hants PO5 2PE (Tel 0705 734847)

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 Options

T

H E

S T O R Y

AIR

I S

O N L Y

DEFENCE

The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is young compared to the history of those who inhabit the land.

And you could perhaps be forgiven for drinking that theirs is a story rooted in the past. But the thriving, modern country of today blends tradition with state of the art technology, and what we see now is simply the beginning.

Saudi Arabia has also become a major force for peace and stability in the Middle East, attaching increasing importance to building and sustaining a modern, self-reliant Royal Saudi Air Force.

Project Al-Yamamah, Britain's largest export agreement ever, is a multi-billion pound commitment to provide aircraft, training and support to the Kingdom, with 'Saudisation' as the ultimate goal.

Which is where you could come in.

We are now looking.to recruit experienced Air Defence Specialists in the areas of AD Radar, AD Computer Systems and AD Communications. Working in Riyadh on the prestigious and crucial 'Falcon Eye' element of Project Al-Yamamah, your role will encompass the commissioning, operational establishment and future Research arid Development of

B E G I N N I N G

ADVISERS

this wholly integrated Air Defence system.

Aged 36-50 and either an Engineer or Operator, ideally you will be degree qualified and must have at least 10 years experience either in the military or in a directly related defence industry.

You must also have worked extensively in either Radar, Communications or Computer Systems, within an Air Defence or similar operational environment.

If you have the right skills and experience, you can enjoy a high salary, free of tax, plus benefits which include free messing, freeaccommodation, free medical care and free life assurance, as well as generous leave and travel paid UK flights.

Add to that substantial discounts on a wide range of Rover cars for you and your immediate family and you begin to get a measure of this unparalleled opportunity for men able to adapt to a fascinating Kingdom, very different in lifestyle and culture to the West.

For further information write enclosing relevant details and quoting ref. no. NN 003 to: The Personnel Officer, Al-Yamamah Business Office, FREEPOST, British Aerospace Defence Ltd, Systems and Services Division, Warton, Preston, Lanes PR4 1BR. Or telephone Preston (0772) 634317.

I/V SAUDt EVERYTHING

YOU

MAKE

IT

27

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

Food, glorious food!

HMS TAMAR made off with the cream of the awards at the Royal Navy's Salon Culinaire, topping the "medals chart" with an impressive collection of seven gold, five silver and three bronze.

Pictures — Above, the Tamar team and the exquisite oriental carving in fat which won a gold medal for LCK Leung W.W. (front row, second from left in team photo).

Watt's cooking!

Young Cook of the Year award went to A/CK. Craig Watt of HMS Neptune, who also produced the best junior entry in the competition, and the winner of the Leading Cook's award was LCK Neil Harvey from RNAS Culdrose. Both of these winners will receive a week's experience as a chef at the internationally famous Turner's Restaurant in London.

Their successes came in a great variety of classes in the competition, ranging from "works in fat" and hot sweets, to "packed meal and napkin", and one of the Hong Kong team, LCK Leung W.W. was awarded the Prix d'Honneur of the event.

The aim of the Salon is to encourage the more senior staff to continue to take up the challenge of competitive culinary work and the juniors to develop their skills in this area.

The display at the Victory Club, HMS Nelson, where the competition took place, certainly indicated that these aims were being realised, with a tremendous variety of decorative, mouth-watering exhibits which clearly compared favourably with the very best in the world of haute cuisine.

The competition is divided into two sections, a Junior Class, for RN personnel within their first three years of training (or under the age of 21 if civilians) and a Senior Class for those more experienced.

It is open for all ships and establishments to enter, including those with civilian contract caterers, and 225 live and static entries were received in this year's event, from 22 shore bases, four ships and two submarines.

Three titles awarded at the Salon are always fiercely competed for — Young Cook of the Year, Leading Cook of the Year, and Young Steward of the Year.

The five best students on their training courses for the year, selected by the RN Cookery School, Aldershot, for the cooks, and the RN Supply School, HMS Raleigh, for the stewards, compete against each other, the cooks preparing a three-course meal and the stewards displaying their serving skills and knowledge.

Apologies The title of Young Steward of the Year was won by WSTD Joanne Williams of CINCNAVHOME's Staff, and the runner-up was WSTD Elizabeth Hallam from Staff of POST. Unfortunately in last month's Navy News we mistakenly identified a picture of Elizabeth as being Joanne. Our apologies to both girls for the error. The real Joanne is pictured below, left.

Top sea-going entrant was HMS Nottingham, with a notable haul of medals, two gold, a silver and two bronze.

JAL Wll

Photo above: Young Cook of the Year, ACK Craig Watt from HMS Neptune receiving the cook's knife trophy from Mr. C. E. Messant, Master of the Worshipful Company of Cooks.

HMS Tamar RNCKS Aldershot HMS Dolphin HMS Nottingham HMS Collingwood CINCNAVHOME HMS Neptune HMS Warrior HMS Osprey HMS Nelson HMS Mercury RNH Haslar HMS Drake

Centre, CK Scott Jowett of HMS Nottingham with his gold-medal-winning Hot sweet.

Left, the real WSTD Joanne Williams (!), Young Steward of the Year, mixes up a cocktail during the contest.

Right, ACK Angus Purden from HMS Warrior offers up his pasta dish to judge Dick Murzel. Verdict ? — a gold medal winner.

Gold 7 6 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1

Silver 5 2 4 1 1 0 0 6 1 1 0 0 0

Bronze 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 0

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 Options

29

usy times for the small ships of 10 MCM Squadron

RESERVE ELEVEN TRAINING HARD THE ELEVEN ships of the Royal Naval Reserve's 10th Mine Countermeasures Squadron, based at home ports throughout the UK, have not only been carrying out their own weekend and two-week continuation training periods throughout

the past year, but also coming together to participate in exercises which have seen them in France, Spain and Belgium as well as in home waters.

Each of the ships of the Squadron — HMS Arun, Carron, Dovey, Helford, Helmsdale, Humber, Itchin, Orwell, Ribble, Spey and Waveney — has a complement of 26, including extra space for personnel under training. All of the reservists are volunteers, dedicating their spare time from their normal civilian jobs to the efficient operational running of their River-class minesweepers.

Mixed manning has been the norm for some time now, making the Wrens of the Squadron the first at sea in the small ships flotilla.

The main exercise of the year was NATO's "Ocean Safari", when the ships spent a month in Spanish waters, changing over their crews during this period to ensure maximum training and experience for their personnel.

Readiness

Maybe it's because they're Londoners BRAVING bitterly cold weather, 50 members of the HMS London 1947-49 Association came aboard the present-day Type 22 frigate, HMS London, at Devonport to tour the ship and meet and reminisce with the current ship's company.

Links between the ship and the association have always been close, but because of London's extremely busy programme during last year this was the first opportunity for some time to renew old acquaintances and strike up new ones.

During all the continuous training periods the crews refine and practise their skills in all aspects of running an operational warship, with the main emphasis on minesweeping, including team and double Orespesa sweeping.

Firefighting and NBCD skills are regularly practised, culminating in the annual "Its a Knockout"-type contest held at Rosyth — winner of the trophy this year was HMS Humber, crewed by personnel from HMS Cambria, South Wales Division.

Gunnery is not forgotten, with anti-aircraft practice against sleeve targets provided by FRADU. The RNR still retains valuable expertise in this area and numerous compliments regarding the professionalism and accuracy of the crews have been made by the FRADU pilots. (The aircraft were never in any danger!)

Despite the well-publicised cut-backs currently taking place in the Royal Navy Reserves, morale in the 10th MCM Squadron remains high, with a determination to continue to maintain their high standards, and to ensure that their small ships are operationally ready for any eventuality.

Photographs: Top — HMS Ribble on sweeping exercises.

Centre — A trio of minesweepers from 10 MCM Squadron.

Left — Low-level anti-aircraft shoot with the ship's 40mm close-range gun.

New look for the

Warm welcome Falklands for the Beaver boys clubs SAILORS docked at Mare Harbour and visiting Mount Pleasant airport in the Falkland Islands are celebrating the reopening of their Naafi clubs, following extensive refurbishment.

The two clubs, the Gull and Penguin and the Dolphin, have been refitted at a cost £251,000. Much of the money came from Naafi, with club improvement funds and the South Atlantic Fund also contributing.

Work included b u i l d i n g raised seating areas, booths, amusement machine areas, snooker room, bar fronts, arches, columns and, in the Dolphin Club, providing a 62x19ft mural depicting a ship's boiler room.

SOME 3,000 Beaver Scouts (the youngest section of the Scout movement) descended on the Type 22 frigate HMS Beaver for her special Beavers weekend, alongside at Devonport.

Since the inception of the Beavers section in 1982, HMS Beaver has held open days for the young Scouts whenever she's in port. Every Beaver Scout has the chance to become an honorary member of the ship's company, resulting in both the largest and the youngest crew of any naval ship in the world — currently just under 100,000.

Beaver Scouts travelled from all parts of the region to tour the ship and meet the crew, and the Royal Navy made many new young friends, as has happened over the past years. Indeed, some female Beaver leaders have found prospective husbands amongst the crew!

The visit was supported by the Scout Fellowship and Venture Scouts section, who provided escorts and carried out other duties throughout the weekend.

Photo, right — Beaver Scout Gary Packer, aged eight, from the 23rd Plymouth St. Mary's Beaver colony gives HMS Beaver's bell a polish, assisted by Wren (Missile) Kerry Panned.

* -

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

Notice Board Appointments

Points THE following list shows the total points of the men and women at the top of each advancement roster for petty officer and leading rates as at February 1, 1992.

Intermediates (Int) indicates that personnel can be advanced before they are eligible to receive merit points or before the roster can be adjusted to take account of them.

This means that personnel are advanced in "basic date" order. Dates shown against "Int" rosters are the basic dates of the top eligible personnel.

The number following the points (or basic dates) is the number of men who were advanced during January.

PO(EW)/RS(W) — Int (7.6.91). Nil; LS(EW)/UKXW) — Int (6.12.91). Nil; PO(M) — Int (28.9.90), Nil; LS(M) — Int (15.3.91), 2; PO(R) — 103 Nl; LS(H) — Int (27.9.91), Nl; PO(S) — Dry. Nil; LS(S) — Int (15.3.91), Nil; PO(D) — Int (8.12.89). Nil; LS(D) — 235, Nil; PO(MW) — Dry, Nil; LS(MW) — Int (15.3.91), Nil: PCKSR) — Int (9.6.89). Nil; LS(SR) — Int (8.12.89). Nil; PO(SEA) — Int (9.6.89), Nil; CY — 178, 2; LROfT) — Int (5 12.89), Nil; RS — 137, Nil; LRO(G) — Int (12.3.91). Nil; POPT — 142. 2; RPO — 88,1.

POMEM(L)(GS) — Int (10.1.91). 7; LMEM(L)(GS) — Int (5.7.91), 11; POMEM(MKGS) — 246, Nil; LMEM(MKGS) — Int (9.11.89), 12; POWEM(OXGS) — Int (3.7.90), 3; LWEM(OXGS) — Int (18.12.90), 5: POWEM(R)(GS) — Int (5.3.91), Nil; LWEM(RKGS) — Dry, 6; POCA — Int (19.10.89). Nil; POCK(GS) — 255. Nil; LCK(GS) — Int (31.8.89). 1; POSTD(GS) — 647. 1; LSTD(GS) — Int (20.2.90), 2; POSA(GS) — 419. Nil; LSA(GS) — Int (18.10.90), Nil; POWTR(GS) — Int (27.7.90), Nil, LWTR(GS)I — — Int — Dry. ury, 8; o; POMA KUIHA — LMA — Dry, (12.9.89). Nil; LMA T 3.

POlSXSM)-- lnt(7F Int (7.8.91). 1; LS(S)(SM) — . iXSM) - Int (9.10.90), NH; 122. 6; POfTSXSM) LSTTSXSM) — Int (21.5.91), Nil; RS(SM) — 169. Nil; LRO(SM) — Int (13.3.90), 2: POMEMO-XSM) - 356. Nil; LMEM(LXSM) — 87. Nil; POMEM(MMSM) — 648. 2; LMEMfMXSM) - 503. Nil; I — 228. Nil: LWEM(OXSM) Int (13.10.89). 2; POWEM(R)(SM) — Int (5.11.91), Nil; LWEM(R)(SM) — Int (16.8.89). Nil; POPJWMSM) — Dry, Nil: POSA(SM) — Int'

(28.11.90). Nil; LSA(SM) — POWTR(SM) — Int (5.2.90), 1; L« Int 1; POCK(SM) — Int, Nil; ' 595. Nil; POSTD(SM) — 157. Nil; I — 390, Nl. POA(AH) — 586. Nil; LA(AH) — 588. 2; POA(METOC) — Int (13.7.90). Nil; ~ -Dry, N1;POA(PHOT) —213.

— 291. Nil; LA(SE) — Int "2; POACMN — 452, Nil; j — 110, 5; LAEM(M) — 161, 6; . J — Int (8.11.90). 3; LAEM(R) 130, Nil; POAEM(WL) — 181. Nil; LAEMIWL) — 422. Nil; POAC — Dry. 1.

POWREN(R) — Int (5.3.90), Nil; LWRENTR) — Int (5.3.90). 1: POWREN(RS) — 97, Ni; LWRENptO) — Int (6.6.89), 2; POWRENPT — Int (13.2.90), NH; RPOWREN — Int (7.11.89), 1; POWRENCK — Int. NH; LWRENCK — Int, NH; POWRENSTD — 583.

Nil; LWRENSTD — Int (20.2.90). 2; POWRENSA — 109. NH; LWRENSA — Int (18.10.90). Nil; POWRENWTR — Int (13.6.89), 1; LWRENWm — Int (17.10.91).

5: POWRENWTR(G) — Int (20.2.90), Nil; LWHENWTR(G) — Int Nil; POWRENMETOC — Int NH; LWRENMETOC — Dry, Nil; POWRENPHOT — 213, NH. POWRENAEM(M) — Int (6.7.89). Nil; LWRENAEM(M) — 175. Nil; POWRENAEM(R) — Dry, NH; LWRENAEM(R) — Int (7.7.89), Nil; POWRENAEM(WL) — 107, Nil; LWRENAEM(WL) — 176, Nil; POWRENETS — 143. NH; LWRENETS — Int (3.7.90), 1; LWRENTEL — 239, Nil; POWRENWA — Int (4 4.90). Nil; LWRENWA — Int (9.10.90), Nil; POWRENDHYG — Int (2.4.90). Nil; POWRENOSA — Int (12.2.91), Nil; LWRENDSA — Int (28.9.89). NH; POEN(G) — 144. 2; LEhXG) — Dry, NH; PORGN — Int, Nil; LMA(O) — Dry, 4.

The Basic Dates quoted for the WRNS ratings in the following categories, which have no examination Tor the next higher rate, are applied in accordance with BR 1066 Chapter 22: POWREN QA — Int (12.7.91), 1; PO WREN MT — 656, NH; POWREN TEL — 943, Nil. Roster states do not include the award of the November 1991 C281 merit points which were not available at the time of publication.

TWO promotions to vice-admiral are announced among latest appointments.

Ftear-Admiral M. H. G. Layard, Director General Naval Manpower and Training, is to be promoted vice-admiral on April 1 and to be Leader of the Officers' Study group. To be Chief of Staff to CINCFLEET from June, in the rank of vice-admiral, is Rear-Admiral G. W. R. Biggs, at present Commander British Forces Gibraltar.

Succeeding Rear-Admiral Layard in March as DGNMT will be RearAdmiral N. J. Wilkinson, at present serving in MOD. Capt. J. T. Sanders, also at present serving in MOD, is to be promoted rear-admiral and to succeed Rear-Admiral Biggs as Commander British Forces Gibraltar in April.

Other appointments recently announced include: Cdr T. I. Htdestoy. Hurworth in command. April 30.

Cdr. I. Turner. Roebuck in command.

Feb. 12.

LJeut-Cdr. B. J. Gerrish. Orkney in command. May 19.

Diana (29). High Wycombe, Bucks Miss K. (18) Acomb, York Karina (20), Northampton Josephine (38), Renfrew Kate (23). Plym outh, Devon. Andrea (20), Milton Keynes, Bucks Mandy (26). Chipping Sodbury. Avon Julia (43). Wimborne. Dorset. Joanne (26).

WakefiekJ Yorks Maggie (34), Uttoxeler.

Staffs Joanna (19). Newark, Notts Sharon (33), Dorchester. Dorset Carol (25), Stoke-onTrent. Staffs Michelle (18). Wellingborough. Northants Carol (34). Havant. Hants. Joanne (24). Cob ham. Surrey Paula (33). Romford, Essex Sarah (20). Hull. Humberside Pat (41). Exmouth.

Devon Sue (32) Hayling Island. Hants. Shirley-Ann (33). Poote. Dorset Jeanine (20).

Wellingborough. Northants Barbara (23) Stanford le-Hope. Essex Janine (23). Gillingham. Dorset Tracy (25).

Prenton. Wirral Lynne (18). Swindon. Wilts.

Sophie (24). Chiswick. London Miss S. (18), Eastham. Wirral Angie (26). tvybridge. Devon Claire (19). Rotherham. Yorks Lynn (40).

Portsmouth, Hants. Anne (25), Emsworth.

Hants.

Margaret (30). Kings Norton, Birmingham Ruth (37). Torpoint. Cornwall Donna (19), Bir

Navy News\ OF THE ROYAL NAVY Every month packed with news and views of the Royal Navy

mingham Andrea (21). Knaresbrough. Yorks.

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Margate. Kent Susan (25). Glasgow Margaret (16). Hull, Humberside Rachel (21), Clapton, London Diane (27), Newark, Notts Michete (21). Twickenham. Middx Jacqui (22). Exeter. Devon Carol-Ann (20).

Edinburgh Dianne (23), Tomes. Devon. Sue (29). Cramlington. Northumberland Dionne (22). Millon Keynes, Bucks Linda (34). Craml ington, Northumberland.

Debra (23). Hull. Patricia (53). Portsmouth.

Hants Wendy (30). Stockport, Cheshire Claire (18). Towcester. Northants Dee (26), Hull. Catherine (35). Worksop. Notts Claire (17). Storehouse. Glos Anesta (19), St. Al bans. Herts Hazel (30). Hull. Sarah (25). War wick. Warks Julie (21). Newton Aycliffe, Co Durham Emma (21). York Rosie (30). Milford Sound, New Zealand Helen (25). Sheffield Sandy (33). Plymouth. Devon Deborah (33). Chat tens, Cambs Johanna (28). Portland. Dorset.

Joanna (45), Reading. Berks Sally (28), Milford Sound. New Zealand

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M. Harriman (1.10.92), M. J. Parr (1.10.92).

ENGINEERING: To captain — T. Roootham, I. D. G. Franklin, W. B. Harris, R. J. Lord, S. M. Williams, G. D. Challands.

To commander — T. J. Phillips, L. M. Jeram-Croft. D. Strawford, A. C. Matters, R. A. S. Adams, M. C. Robb. I. R. Munro, T. J. Lankester. S. J. Dyer. C. S. Smith, J. Wadham, G. P. Hockley, G. J. Boyce, R. W. Jackman, A. R. Ryrner. A. D. H Mathews, M. B. Alabaster.

To lieutenant-commander — promoted 12 months early: A. Dotton (1.2.92), I. Shipperley (1.5.92). Promoted six months earfy: S. J. Thompson (1.9.92). S. J. Woodcock (1.10.92).

SUPPLY AND SECRETARIAT: To captain — D. R. Humphrey. L. C. P. Merrick, A. J. Wright.

To commander — D. F. Lane, T. J. Hosker, G. E. MacDonakJ, M. A. Comberg.

T. F. W. Martin.

To lieutenant-commander — Promoted six months early — I. T. Lockwood (8.7.92).

M. J. O'Grady (16.11.92).

INSTRUCTOR: To captain — P. W. Binks.

To commander — J. P. Ratdiffe, P. Stanley, C. M. Woods.

WOMEN'S ROYAL NAVAL SERVICE: To commander — C. J. Stait.

MEDICAL: To surgeon captain — R. D. Curr, J. R. Haydon.

To surgeon commander — E. H. N. Oakley. J. 1C Campbell, R. W. Smith, C. M. James, C. J. G. McArthur.

DENTAL: To surgeon commander (D): C. J. Woodward.

ROYAL MARINES: To colonel: G. F. Smart To lieutenant-colonel — J. Q. Davis. R. H. G. Fulton.

To major — J. S. Baxter, M. N. Spicer, M. W. Bibbey, J. V. V. Parker, S. V. Balm.

5D List THE following candidates have been selected for promotion to Sub-Lieutenant(EXME) on the Special Duties List to date June 15: CCMEAIM) P. Berry. CCMEA(ML) P. Morgan, and CPOMEA(ML)s A. M. Green, P. J. Southern and J. A. Wilson.

Swop Drafts LCK(C) Currier, 3K Mess. HMS Argyll.

Will swop for any Portsmouth-based snip, deploying or not.

ALROG Selway, 3L Mess, HMS Cleopatra, drafted FOF3 (Shore) Portsmouth. Will swop for any Plymouth shore base.

LWTR Caddy, 2F Mess, HMS Birmingham, drafted HMS Centurion. May. Will swop for any Portland base — Poole and Yeovifton also considered.

CWEM(R) Spencer, HMS Coventry, drafted FOST (Comms) Portland, May. Will swop, for any Plymouth shore base or ship in refit.

WRENAB(R) Walmsley, RNEWOS. RAF Wyton, tel. 0480 52451 ext. 82807. Will swop for Culdrose or Plymouth draft. Must be AB(R) or AB(WA), preferably PV. CK Speiiman-Kelley, HMS Ark Royal, ext. 507, deploying September. Will swop for any Rosyth-based ship, deploying or not.

For a UK subscription just send name, address and cheque/P.O. for '\ £9.25 for 12 months or £26 for three years

Vice-Admiral Sir James Weatherall. until recently Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Atlantic, and to retire from the Royal Navy shortly after 37 years service, is to become the Queen's Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps.

Officer Promotions PROVISIONAL half-yearly selections for promotion from June 30 1992 are as follows. The early promotions to lieutenantcommander are effective on the dates shown: SEAMAN: To captain — A. J. Lyall. C. V. Ellison, B. A. L. Goldman. A. M. Poulter, P. W. Herington, P. J. Ellis, P. H. Jeffery. N. S. R. Kilgour, R. A. I. McLean, T. P. McClement.

To commander — R. T. Govan, I. Shepherd, P. C. Ingham, G. P. Ramsay, D. C. Gregan, P. N. M. Dairies, N. L. Smee, D. H. Durston. P. Lankester, J. Donaldson, M. St. C. Armitage, W. D. Bestall, R. C. Hawkins.

M. U. Sloan. I. Moncneff. T. R. Herman. R. Thoburn, A. J. Rix, N. Beadnell, C. A. Johnstone Burl.

To lieutenant-commander — promoted 12 months early: J. S. Westbrook (effective 1.3.92). A. S. BeH. (1.6.92). Promoted six months early — A. M. McKendrick (1.7.92),

Pen Friends READERS seeking penfriends in the Royal Navy are listed below. Any sailor who writes to an applicant must use a stamped envelope bearing the applicant's name and town. The letter should be enclosed in a second enve lope addressed to "Pen Pals," Navy News, HMS Nelson, Portsmouth On receipt the replies will be redirected — but only if they have been stamped.

Debbie (32). Plymouth. Devon Gabnette (25). Penzance, Cornwall JuKe (35). Potters Bar Herts Kerry (25). Plymouth. Devon Linda (37). Bristol Pauline (32), Washington, Tyne & Wear Tracey (23). Manchester Tracy (22). Glasgow Sharon (22). Uttoxeter. Staffs Christine (38). Cardiff Audrey (23), Glasgow Vicky (18). Liver pool Anne (37). Portsmouth. Hants Suzanne (26). Bransholme. Hull Louise (19), Aberdare.

Glam. Dawn (35), Shrewsbury Kirstie (20).

Coalvillc. Leicester GeraMme (39), Falmoulh, Cornwall Jenette (27). South Norwood. Lon don. Linda (25), Glasgow Claire (20), Sheffield, Yorks Patricia (35).

Glasgow Jacqui (27). Bransholme, Hull Janet (20), Hammersmith. London Wendy (24), Rhyl. Cfwyd Sharon (24). St Albans, Herts

LJeut-Cdr. D. B. Hosking. Sandown in command. July 28.

CK Black, HMS Ark Royal, deploying September. Will swop for any Rosyth or Portsmouth-based ship, deploying or not.

POMEM(M) Oakley, HMS Andromeda.

Will swop for any Portsmouth Leander or LFS.

NA1(AH2) Farrand, HMS Heron, drafted HMS Fearless, July. Will swop for any Yeovilton-based squadron.

POMEA(ML) Cookson, HMS Norfolk (tel.

0752 509531). drafted HMS Neptune, March. Any other draft considered.

WREKKSA) Powell, HMS Illustrious, ext.

53600/52817 (in refit in Plymouth). Will swop for any Portsmouth shore base.

NA(AH) J. Mowatt, Main Gate HMS Nelson, dratted 849 NAS, May, will consider swop for any other draft.

WHO Gooding, Commcen, MHQ Pitreavie, ext. 4273, drafted NWD Crypto, May. Will swop for Pitreavie but will consider any Scottish draft.

LSTD Gilbert Ross House. HMS Daedalus, ext. 4500. drafted HMS Sheffield. April.

Will swop for any Portsmouth-based ship, deploying or not.

WRO Clarke, RM Condor, Arbroath (tel.

0241 72201 ext. 2075), drafted Commcen, Pitreavie, July. Will consider any southern region draft, preferably south west area.

RO1(G) Mills, North wood ext. 5083. drafted HMS Invincible, May (PV billet) Will swop for any Portsmouth-based ship or shore base.

WRENWTR Johns, HMS Invincible, deploying May. Will swop for any ship not .MEM(M) Christie, HMS Invincible, deploying May. Will swop for Portsmouthbased Type 42.

LWEM Purdy, HMS Nottingham. Will swop for any carrier.

LSA Rowe, HMS Amazon. Will swop for any Devonport-based ship, preferably Type 22 or Survey Class, deploying or not.

LSA Kenny, HMS Raleigh, ext. 41421. drafted HMS Royal Arthur. March. Will swop for any Devonport shore establishment or ship in refit.

LCK Wright HMS Quorn. Will swop for any Portsmouth-based ship.

WRO1 Robinson, HMS Warrior (Commcen). ext 5507, drafted Warrior (NILU — PV billet). Will consider any swop, preferably Portsmouth shore base.

LWEM(R) Porter, 3HA Mess HMS Boxer, deploying May. Will swop for Devonport ship, home waters, preferably DED, RPS. LRO(G) Mason, HMS Gloucester, drafted HMS Middleton April. Will swop for any Portsmouth-based ship.

LCK Tolley, 2Q(S) Mess, HMS Newcastle, deploying May. Will swop for Portsmouth base or ship not deploying.

A/LRO(G) Stark, HMS Southampton. Will swop for any Rosyth-based Type 42, preferably not deploying, but anything considered.

LS(M) Jess, HMS Invincible, ext. 443. Will swop for any Portsmouth-based Type 42.

Must be ADAWS, RF/DF trained.

CPOMEA(EL) Sibtey, HMS Sultan, ext 2515. WiH swop for any Plymouth-area shore base.

LSTD Stephenson, Wardroom, HMS Nelson, ext 24182. drafted HMS Avenger, April. Will swop for any Portsmouth-based ship.

POAEM(M) Adams, 815 Sqn, Portland, ext 2497, drafted 360 Sqn.. March. Will swop for any Yeovilton second line unit. eg.

AMG 899 Sqn. CPOWEA(AD) Can-, HMS Collingwood, ext 744, drafted HMS Argyll, Sept. (Plymouth-based). Will swop for any Portsmouthbased ship.

POMEA(EL) Richards, HMS Cumberland, drafted HMS Sultan in CPO billet, April. Will swop for any shore base in Devonport area.

CK Jackson, HMS Birmingham, drafted HMS Osprey, June. Will swop for any shore base in Portsmouth area.

LWREN(ETS) Chappell, HMS Rooke, drafted HMS Warrior, May. Will swop for any Scottish draft.

WRO1 Biggs, Commcen Yeovifton, ext 6372/6116, drafted Commcen Northwood (PV billet). May. Any swop draft considered.

LWRENRO Rawing*, FONA Commcen Yeovttton, ext. 6371/6372, ERO April 1993.

Will consider Whitehall swop.

WREN(R) Crossan, COMMW Ops Rm., Rosyth ext. 64290. or Wrens Qtrs. 62452.

Will swop for any Portland/Yeovilton/Portsmouth shore base.

WRENWTR(AB) Gaunter, RAF Brampton, Huntingdon (tel. 0480 52151 2696). Will swop for any draft except Scotland. Must be PV. LS(M) D. Oilman, 3Q HMS Chatham, deploying May-Dec, will swop for any Devonport snip not deploying, or shore base.

WiH p. McDonald, HMS Amazon, will swop for any Devonport based ship, prefereably Type 22 or Survey dass, deploying or not LCK Maraden, LH Mess, HMS Chiddingfold, STANAVFORCHAN deployment until May, will swop for any Rosyth-based ship not deploying until September.

Promotions to Chief AUTHORITY for promotion of the following ratings to chief petty officer was issued by HMS Centurion in January: OPERATIONS BRANCH SEAMAN GROUP To CPO(OPSXEW) — A. D. Oktfield (Dryad), S. R. Biddiscombe (Lancaster), G A. MalccJmson (Jupiter), M. R. W. F.ndlay (Dryad), S. M. Pearce (Dryad).

To CPO(OPSXR) — K. Rowley (Sheffield).

D. F. Seetey (Dryad). S. J. Catterall (Ceres).

M. A. Barker (Ark Royal). R. J. Pavey (Dryad), B. R. Samuel (Nelson), D. J. Brennan (Cardiff), L. Hammond (849 Sqn HO), A. G. Waring (RAF Boulmer), I. S. Hardie (Dryad).

R. J. Baldock (Arrow). S. K. Cook (Wildfire).

C. M. Simmonds (Invincible).

To CPO(OPS)(S) — R. R. Rimmer (Campbeltown).

To CPO(SR) — K. J. Jeffery (Dryad).

(COMMUNICATIONS GROUP), REG and PT. To CRS — A. G. Eastwood (Dragon). G. Torrney (Northwood COM/CRYPTO), N. D. K. Sabin (SCU Leydene), R. F. Frost (Andromeda), M. Rodulson (President).

MARINE ENGINEERING To CMEM(L) — B. Peters (FOSF Eng Portsmouth), S. K. Wright (Sultan), W. G. Price (FOSF Eng Portsmouth), S. Stockdale (Scylla), V. J. Comey (Sultan), M. G. Danby (Leeds Castle), R. W. Gordon (Portsmouth FMRO), D. J. Box (Boxer), D. Chrystal (Cornwall), G. Giles-Payne (Battleaxe), L. J. Huntjngton (Defiance FMB), A. J. Keay (Beaver), J. Scott (Sultan).

SUPPLY AND SECRETARIAT To CPOCA — K. I. Morris (Beaver), R. G. Epton (Nelson), T. M. Carew (Jupiter). M. A. Walsh (Dartmouth BRNC). M. E. Welch (Raleigh).

To CPOCK — T. P. Mcowat (Herald), N G. Brown (Neptune), M. J. Smith <SRA(SMS)Gosport).

MEDICAL BRANCH To CPOMA — R. F. Beck (RM Plymouth), D. W. Morton (RNAS Portland), S. W. Fowler (Nelson NBCD). D. Derbyshire (RNH Haslar), I. R. Pinkney (Gloucester), J. R. Whalley (CTCRM Lympstone). A. J. Holtham (Swiftsure). P. A. Stock (Trenchant). D. Rawson (Vanguard Port).

SUBMARINE SERVICE To CPO(COXNXSM) — A. Jeffery (Torbay). J. Bultoch (Valiant), D. P. Roberts (Turbulent), J. R. Hendren (Sceptre).

To CPO(OPSXSXSM) — C. Clarke (Osiris), D. Skipper (Neptune SM3) A. P. Boyling (Capt SM2).

To CPOfOPSKTSXSM) — R. J. Williams (Tireless), T. A. Morgan (Dolphin Sm.Schl).

B. Tate (Neptune SM3). T. E. Searle (JAAC Famborough), C. S. Rowley (Spartan).

To CRS(SM) — J. Berry (Resolution Stbd), M. R. Pitt (Captain SM2).

To CWEM(OXSM)/CPO(UWXSM) — R. N. Hopwood (Neptune NT). K. M. Costelto (Re-

venge Port), W. Sinclair (Neptune NT).

To CWEM(R)jSM) — M. Coleman (CoMngwood).

FLEET AIR ARM To CPOA(PHOT) — N. A. V. Gordon (JS Phot School).

To CAEM(M) — G. L. Stewart (RNAS Portland), J. Cooper (RNAS Culdrose), M. L. Chapman (RNAS Culdrose), P. B. J. Gregory (Prestwick), C. G. Harrell (Invincible), P. R. Baker (RNAS Lee-on-Solent), D. W. Bruce (FONA), G. Dawes (RNAS Portland).

D. Morgan (RNAS Culdrose), S. A. Wehrie (Gannet), M. Bailey (DGA(N) ASE MASU), D. Wade (CDO Helo Sc).

To CPOAC — G. C. Bouy (RNAS Portland).

WRNS BRANCHES To CWREN(OPSHR) — A. McCarthy to CWREN(OPSXWA) — D. M. Best (FOSF ENG Wl).

QARNNS BRANCHES To CPORGN — A. A. Coleman (RNH Plymouth), H. K. Wilford (RNH Haslar).

FAMILY SERVICES To CPOFS/CWRENFS — V. E. Parkins (Drake), J. C. Wilkinson (Nelson).

ACTING CHARGE CHIEF ARTIFICER Authority was issued by HMS Centurion in January for the following ratings to be promoted to acting charge chief artificer: To ACCMEA — R. Taylor (Dolphin).

CHIEF PETTY OFFICER ARTIFICER HMS Centurion has been notified of the following promotions to chief petty officer artificer which were made by commanding officers in December: CPOMEA — J. B. Blagg (Defiance FMB).

A. S. Firth (Resolution Port), W. F. John (Defiance FMB), A. J. King (Fit Eng Rosyth).

G. D. Newell (Sultan), I. Stephenson (Repulse Port).

ACPOMEA — D. Cherrie (Neptune NT). S. D. Coates (Scylla), R. A. Cumming (Repulse Port), F. G. Robb (Hermione), C. A. Thomdyke (Cardiff), S. Vick (Gloucester).

CPOCT(L) — D. A. Brown (MOD CNSO SCU).

CPOAEA(WL) — M. Evans (829 Fit 226), D. E. Free (800 Sqn).

CPOAEA(M) — A. S. Bown (Osprey). S. M. J. Dyke (DGA(N)ASE MASU). S. Mikx (Daedalus AES).

CPOAEA(R) — C. C. A. Bissett (706 Sqn. Seahawk), M. Broome (RNAS Culdrose). I. Keam (RNAS Yeovilton), A. J. Sailer (DGA(N)ASE MASU).

CPOWEA — E. Collins (Turbulent), N. J. French (Dolphin SM Schl), M. R. Jones (Minerva). W. C. Read (Scylla).

ACPOWEA — S. G. Rushby (Portsmouth FMRO).

AMT1 — M. J. Lawton (Gib. Naval Base).

Honours ROYAL NAVY list in the 1992 New Year Honours List included the following: KCB: Vice-Admiral N. Purvis.

CB: Rear-Admiral J. P. W. Middleton, Rear-Admiral I. H. Pirrne KBE: Vice-Admiral D. S. Dobson CBE: Capt. A. E. Thomson. Brig. R. C. van der Horst.

OBE: Surg. Cdr. C. J. Davis, Cdr. P. R. Gage. Capt. P. J. King. Capt. M. J. Larmuth, Cdr. M. C. Nixon, Cdr. A. M. Poulter, Cdr. B. E. Steed, Cdr. K. Thomas. Cdr. D. G. Widgery, Cdr. D. P. Wilson.

MBE: Cdr. J. D. Coker. Rev. G. W. Craig, Lieut -Cdr G. L Fielding, Lieut. T. C. Hope, LJeut-Cdr. M. J. Hudson, WO D. S. C. Lodrick, Lieut.-Cdr. P. B. Mathias, Lieut Cdr. F. Patchett, WO I. M. Perry, WO M. Robertson, LJeut.-Cdr. (SCC) D. F. Ward,

RNR, WO1 J D. Wassail RM, WO P. J. Willis, Lieut W. E. Wilson.

BEM: CPOWTR J. E. Baker. C/Sgt. K. W. Bowen RM. CPO (Sea) G. R. L. Brooks.

CCMEA(P) R. C. Cotes. CPOWTR P. R. Cornish, CPOMEA(M) R. I. Goram. PO(D) P Quiver, CPOMEA(L) A. E. Habgood, CMT K. Hall, CMEM(M) M. K. Jones. CWRENOOPS)WA M. A. McKeman, CPOWTR J. J. Noone. CPCHSea) A. C. Orchard CPOMEA(P) S. J. Sandel, Sgt. C. R. Spooner RMR, CWRENWTR A. M. Stewart WRNR CCMEA(P) N. E. V. Taviner.

Royal Red Cross: ARRC — CPOEN(G) S. Devadason QARNNS, SNO M. J. Sutton QARNNS(R).

Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service in the Air Lieut.-Cdr. N.M. Hughes.

(Jeut.-Cdr. P. D. Kenward.

Deaths C. R. Gregg. Mid. Nov 27.

Sir John Lancaster, KBE, CB. ViceAdmiral. Served 1921-62. Director General Manpower and Chief Naval Supply and Secretariat Officer 1959-62. Ships included HMS Revenge. Carlisle, Gloucester and Ocean. Later Rear-Admiral Personnel, Home Air Command. Aged 88.

J. E. M. Glenny, DSO, DSC. Capt (retd).

Second World War anti-mine expert. Served 1924-58, including HMS Royal Oak. Viscount Barham, Howe and Bulawayo. Later appointments included Commodore RN Barracks, Lee-on-Solent. Aged 82.

R. C. Freaker, DSO and BAR, DSC. Cdr, RNR (retd). Convoy escort commander Second World War, including command of HM ships Nasturtium, Jed and Loch Eck. Earlier served in Royal Research ship William Scoresby; awarded Polar Medal. Later senior pilot Suez Canal Pilotage Service.

Aged 88.

R. Fairthome. LJeut-Cdr. (retd). Served in HMS Warspite at Jutland. Aged 93.

D. C. Law. Ex-CPOSHPT. Served 193958, including HM ships Newcastle, Philoctetes. Nuthatch and Cockade.

L. W. Sampson. Ex-STOMECH. Member HMS Rodney Assn. Aged 81.

E. T. Scaife. Ex-CMEM. Served in submarines and in HMS Eagle and Hampshire.

Aged 54.

W. Greenwood- Ex-POSEA. Ships included HMS Anson and Consort and HMY Britannia.

W. Lax. Ex-CPO. Served 1926-48, including HMS Warspite. Enterprise, Wolfhound and Ajax. Member River Plate Veterans' Assn and HMS London (Arctic Convoy) Assn. Aged 80.

J. Mackie, BEM. Ex-CPOGLI. Served 35 years, including HM ships Orion, Bentley.

Constance and Whirlwind. Member Constance Assn. Aged 72.

F. C. Love. Ex-Comm. Engineer. Served 30 years, including HMS Queen Elizabeth, Renown, London, Lowestoft and Peterel.

Aged 92.

M. J. Stallard. Cx-PTl Served 1937-52. including HMS Caledonia, Manchester and Indefatigable.

W. R. Bryant Lieut RNVR (retd). Served in HMS Argus on Russia and Mafia convoys, in HMS Macaw, and at Norwa, Sydney. Aged 80.

6. McGachie. Ex-COA. Ships included HMS Whitby. Plymouth, Tiger and Lion.

Aged 53.

D. A W»es. Ex-POELEC. Served 194756, including HMS Consort during Yangtze incident and HMS Decoy. Aged 60.

T. Flanagan. Ex-COXN, Submarines.

London Branch Committee member of SOCA. Aged 59.

E. Smith. Ex-RM. Survivor HMS Charybdis and also served in HM ships Furious and Norfolk. Aged 70.

H. Sherton. Ex-CEUAIR). Served 193860. including HMS Ark Royal. Eagle, Implacable and Centaur. Member Wartime Ark Royal Assn and George Cross Island Assn.

Aged 72. a Cotterell. Ships included HMS Espie gle Member Algerines Assn.

A. Broadtoot Ships included HMS Rifleman and Marvel. Member Algerines Assn.

D. Gtossar. Ex-RN. Committee member Liverpool Branch Royal Marines Assn.

ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION The deaths are reported of the following shipmates: J. T. Venney, City of By. Aged 74.

B. Sumner, associated member of Leyland P. BusneM, Dewsbury, Bailey and Birstall. Aged 71.

J. Duff, Portsmouth. Served in HMS Hood.

L. Burrows, Greenford. Ex-STOMECH. Aged 68.

F. Baxter, Epsom. Aged 65.

Lieut Cdr. J. T. Birch, DSO, DSC (retd), president Cirencester for 10 years. Aged 81.

F. Harper, Mansfield and District Served in Hunt class destroyers. Aged 72.

D. Mellor, Blackpool and Fylde. Ships included HMS Harrier.

G. Rickard, Mitcham. Morden and Wimbledon. Aged 92.

Lieut-car. (SCC) J. Ashley-Brown, RNR, Mitcham, Morden and Wimbledon. Former commanding officer TS Benbow and TS Trafalgar. Later Admin. Officer, Sea Cadet HO. Aged 48.

V. R. Smith, Nuneaton. Ships included HMS Coventry. Aged 71.

S. Wood, Todmorden. Aged 76.

J. Flackerty. Ex-WE(RNR). Life member; past chairman Blackhall and Coastal. Aged 76.

C. W. Lee, vice-president Nuneaton.

Aged 67.

A. Milne, associate member Aberdeen.

Aged 71.

J. CartmeH, Southern Ontario. Served in HMS Glasgow and Formidable.

W. Harwood, Southern Ontario. Served as chairman and vice-chairman. Ships included HMS Ark Royal and Indomitable.

1

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

A SECOND START To A FIRST CLASS CAREER

The Royal Fleet Auxiliary will shortly be recruiting experienced Communications Ratings with entry planned for September 1992. Prospective candidates should have a Service background in communications preferably as a Naval Radio Operator, between 18 and 40, and in good health. Successful candidates will attend a six month college course in order to gain a City & Guilds 777 Communications qualification. A supernumerary appointment will then follow, prior to taking up your first complemented post. You will then be fully integrated into the Fleet which provides world-wide support for the Armed Services and in particular the Royal Navy, offering some of the bestterms and conditions available afloattoday. Salary £11,966 p.a. (to be reviewed in April 1992).

So you're leaving the Navy and looking for a second career.

But just remember, second start need not mean second best.

Because here at Airwork our success as an international supplier of professional and technical support services to defence and aerospace industries worldwide means we can supply you with a first class new start.

We are always interested to hear from Ratings with a technical maintenacne background and skills in any of the following areas: • Airframes/Propulsion (Strike Aircraft, Transport Aircraft, Helicopters) • Flight Systems (Strike Aircraft) • Avionics, Ground Support Equipment (including LOX/RHAG) • Armament (including Weapon Storage) • Ground Electronics

If the prospect appeals to you and you would like further information or an application form please write to:

(Man/Vehicle Portable Comms Systems, Aerials) • Rapier, Warship Comms/Radar Systems • Warship Weapon Control Systems.

Why not write (no stamp required), enclosing a full CV

The Recruitment Officer (Communications Ratings)

quoting reference Oil, to the Recruitment Manager, Airwork Ltd., FREEPOST, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 6BR or telephone (0202)

DST(SF) 74A6 Room 412

572271 ext 2214 for an application form.

Empress State Building London SW6 1TR

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CAN YOU WRITE? Of course you can, but can you write technical manuals?

Technical writing could be your best bel for a new career when you leave the Service — demand for qualified technical authors is growing and opportunities exist in many industries in Britain and overseas.

You can learn how to graft this new skill onto your existing technical knowledge by distance learning, at your own pace, wherever your duties take you.

Write and phone now for details of the top quality course: THE COLLEGE OF TECHNICAL AUTHORSHIP Ref NN2, P.O. Box 7, Cheadlc, Cheshire SK8 3BY 061 437 4235 (The courses are not cheap but they are well worth the difference) THE COLLEGE THAT SETS NEW HIGH STANDARDS IN DISTANCE EDUCATION

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LEARN TO FLY ONE TO ONE AVIATION

FLIGHT TRAINING Southampton Airport PPL IMC NIGHT MULTI ENGINE PERSONAL TUITION

LICENCE RENEWALS Full or part-time courses Telephone James Peplow CFI 1713 617641 Of 1212 82692* (after 5pm) Unit 3, Peacock Trading Estate, Goodwood Road, Eastleigh SOS 4NT

LEAVING THE FORCES?

Be your own boss you are too good to be employed Give yourself every opportunity Send for: 120 SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS IDEAS

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Leaving the Forces?

Ex-Service Personnel required to become part of the fastest growing Company in this country today.

Earning money that until now you could only dream of. For an outlay of (£1,487.50 inc VAT) Contact 0329 664759 for details (Closing date lor applications 10/02/92)

JOBS AT SEA UK, Worldwide. Men, Women, skilled, unskilled, inexperienced. Good pay, free food/accommodation. Continual vacancies on cruise ships, oil/gas rigs, tankers, merchants, ferries, trawlers, dredging, diving, salvage, marinas, holiday yachts.

Our latest 150-page vital information packed book £11.50.

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Special Offer both books £19.75 Order today, chegue/posta! order WORLD EMPLOYMENT 3rd Floor Brittanic House, Streche Road

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A NEW CIVILIAN CAREER! The Service to help you meet the challenge Moving to a civilian career is a major challenge. The right support at the right time can make all the difference. The sensible step is to harness the experience of specialist professionals.

Hardwick specialises in helping Service people develop a civilian career. We have extensive experience of Service life plus a long track record in civilian personnel management.

Individual Programmes: our method is tailored to each particular need.

Ongoing Support: we provide a support service as a partnership, as long as is needed.

The process starts with a full exploratory consultation (without obligation or fee) to assess individual requirements. It is an invaluable first move. We urge you to take it.

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SECURITY OFFICER We are looking for bright, presentable and reliable people aged between 19-60 to join our highly trained team, working at prestigious locations throughout the UK. Benefits include paid holidays, sick leave, long service bonuses.

Accommodation available if required.

As part of the P&O Group you enjoy reduced price holidays, plus house purchase reductions and low cost insurance after a qualifying period.

FOR FULL INFORMATION PHONE STERLING SECURITY SERVICES Personnel Department, Unit 12/14 Sterling Industrial Estate, Rainham Road South, Dagenham, Essex RM10 8TA.

Tel: 081-984 8099.

NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

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33

Sport OF ICE &MEN THEY say ice hockey's the toughest game in the world and anyway, who'd want to argue the point with LREG Andy Leddington (Dryad).

Facing each other in the Navy Cup Hockey Final were brothers SA Neil Cunningham (Nelson), on the left, and SA Alan Cunningham (Cochrane), on the right, both of whom are Navy Under 21 players. Stepping in between them is Cochrane goalkeeper LWEM Pits Holstead.

TRIUMPHANT END TO AN 18 YEAR HOCKEY CAREER

Back in September 1990 a number of MEMs from HMS Sultan got together to play and the group has since gone from strength to strength, now comprising some 35 payers from across the Portsmouth area. Its official formation took place in March last year and since then its organisation has improved.

Coached by Paul Woodford and another civilian from Southampton, the team are resplendent in kit bought with money donated by HMS Sultan. They've just had their inaugural game, and although they lost 12-1 to Gosport they are determined to make a better showing in the scheduled rematch.

Anyone interested in playing â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and all standards are welcome â&#x20AC;&#x201D; should contact CCPO Howard Spicer on Sultan ext. 2500 or LReg Leddington on Dryad ext. 4614.

Officers get their bearings DARKEST Plym Forest, P l y m o u t h , provided the cover for the 1991 Royal Navy/Royal Marines Orienteering Championships.

Over 130 competitors enjoyed an excellent day's sport as they tackled the courses planned by Lieut.-Cdr. Ted Heath (Manadon).

Individual results were: I. Maj. Michael W i m p e n n y (3 Cdo Bde HQ and Signal Sqn RM): 2, Surgeon Lieut. John Colbeck (Cdo Log Reg RM); 3.

Maj. Lungmuss (29 Cdo Reg RA) and 4. L i e u t . S k i n n e r (CTCRM).

In a desperately close team competition, CTCRM just defeated 29 Commando Regiment RA; less than 10 minutes separated the six-man teams after more than n i n e hours running.

AFTER narrowly losing to HMS Nelson in the Navy Cup Rugby Final, HMS Cochrane took its revenge in the equivalent event for hockey. An inspection of the Burnaby Road pitch prompted officials to switch the venue to Alexander Park, where the Astro surface was unaffected by frost and ice.

Following a tentative start Cochrane then stepped up a w i n n e r ' s m e d a l . Terry has Cochrane soon settled and after gear, with Jerry Scarlett on the gained every' medal for hockey 10 m i n u t e s Terry S p i n k s right wing and Paddy Porter on in the Services. Congratuearned a short corner, which the left prominent. lations! was nearly converted. Two From another short corner minutes later a fine solo run by Dale-Smith raised his tally to Guy Dale-Smith finished with five and two minutes from the a well-placed shot and Cochend Spinks rounded the keeper HMS COLLINGWOOD rane went 1-0 ahead. and passed square for Paddy Spinks then earned another hosted the 1992 WomPorter to score Cochrane's shot, which Dale-Smith consixth. Final score: 6-2 to HMS en's Inter-Service Inverted to make it 2-0. with Cochrane. door Hockey ChampionBrian Henry and Richie NewThis was Terry Spinks' final ships.

The very port in m i d f i e l d , Cochranc game. He retired from the competitive play providstarted to dominate.

Combined Services and Navy ed an enjoyable day for A fine move by Henry and squads last year due to injury all taking part and Spinks allowed Dale-Smith his and now looks forward to a fine spectating. But no-one hat-trick and jusl before halfretirement. He t h a n k s Navy time he scored his fourth. enjoyed it more than the hockey secretary Lieut.-Cdr. Cochrane's defence relaxed Alan Walker for his help over Army, who won both after the interval, while Nelson the 18 years of his playing their games and took played their best hockey yet career. the title. and pulled back two goals. But With his Navy Cup Final

Hers indoors

GUN THE SECURITY PROFESSIONALS! The Professional School of Security provides the specific training required by commerce and industry through an expertly constructed home study course, for past and present members of "The Forces" to acquire excellent careers in the security industry.

A job opportunity guarantee is offered, and those interested are invited to find out more by writing, without obligation to: The Registrar (Dept. A) Professional School of Security, Crown Court Chambers, Duke Street, Cardiff CF1 3SH

Administration Centre: Newport, Gwent.

Tel: (0633) 222270 Fax: (0633) 222271

Splendid season FOR the golfers of HMS Osprey, the 1991 season proved to be a driving success from the outset.

There was the very successful outing to the Navy Air Command Championships at Troon in May, when the team collected the trophy for the individual Handicap.

Team Scratch and Team Handicap then won the Harry Megson Trophy in early July, the Navy Cup in late July and finished in October, by taking the trophy at the annual triple-headed match between Osprey, Dorset Police and RAC Bovington.

In all, Osprey's golfers have played their most successful season for many years. A full fixtures list ensured plenty of competitive golf for honing skills.

Pictured are some of the Osprey golfers with Capt. Alastair Ross, Captain of HMS Osprey, who is a keen 18 handicapper and has represented the team.

John Colbeck is pictured (left) deep in the forest at the final control on his way to second place overall.

U21 CHAMPS J A N U A R Y 26 saw the Royal Navy Under 21 rugby team beat the A r m y U21s at Burnaby Road by 21 points to 3 and thus become this season's InterService Champions, writes Capt. Bob Fletcher RM. In a game d o m i n a t e d by Navy forward power, tries were scored by their captain, Simon Gay, Mnes. Joe McGough and Nick Holden and AEM Hightower Harrison.

T h i s season also saw the Navy Youth perform well in the county c h a m p i o n s h i p s , with wins against Somerset and Gloucestershire. No longer will they be regarded as the Divisional whipping boys.

Selection of eleven players in the Combined Services squad added the icing to the cake in their most successful season for four years. Such recognition and developing players bode well for the Navy's senior side in seasons to come.

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34 NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992 AT A moving ceremony in the China Fleet Country Club, Surgeon Lieut.-Cdr. (D) Phil Guest received the Royal Navy Golf Association's "Golfer of the Year"

Sport Ski whizz!

NNJ In Brief

TWO men's and one ladies' team represented the Royal Navy in the Combined Services Dual Slalom at the Daily Mail Ski Show, held at Earl's Court. The Men's A team won the competition, while the Men's B team took the Plate.

trophy from Mrs Sue Wright, widow of WO Brian "Shiner" Wright.

Brian, who died last year, was a Royal Navy golfer of many years standing and the trophy has been named in his memory. It was purchased with donations from DML, Plymouth Command Golfing Society, Portsmouth Royal Navy Golf Club and the Royal Navy Golf Association.

Mrs Wright was accompanied by her daughter Julie and son Jeff, a Leading Writer in HMS Drake.

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Former Royal Navy officer Trevor Hargreaves, who went on to serve as a commander in the Sultan of Oman's Navy, has been appointed Plymouth Albion's general manager.

Trevor is quite at home in the world of rugby, h a v i n g played for US Rosyth and represented the Royal Navy and United Services.

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The family of a Royal Marine who captained England's rugby team before the Second World War, have presented the Corps with a portrait of him.

Charles "Tankie" Webb is shown in his England kit. Also presented were the caps Tankie (6ft 3ins and 17 stone) won while playing for England, United Services Plymouth and the Royal Navy.

A survivor of the Prince of Wales sinking, Tankie was rescued by a Malay fishing boat and evaded capture by the Japanese. After the war he served as a RM policeman at Devonport and later as a member of the reorganised MOD police.

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One hundred year old Tom Dimmick from Taunton, the RN's oldest surviving ex-physical training instructor, returned to Portsmouth to see eight newly-qualified PTs display their skills.

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Capt Frederick Hefford RN (retd.), of 20 Stoatley Rise, Haslemere (0428 651440), has succeeded Maj. R. B. Stacey RM (retd.) as Hon. Sec. of the Portsmouth Services Fly Fishing Association.

The Association rents and operates some six miles of the R. Meon and two of the R. Itchen (where good grayling are also to be found). The season runs from April 3 to October 31 and while there is a two to three year waiting list for former members of the Armed Forces, those still serving can gain immediate entry.

Subscription for 1992 is anticipated to be £140. The entrance fee is £20.

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Twickenham RUGBY League has never been a "recognised" sport in the Royal Navy, despite being played nationally by over 1,000 amateur clubs as well as the 36 semi-professional clubs in the Rugby Football League.

Letter The amateur game is administered by the British Amateur Rugby League.

BARLA are interested in promoting the playing of Rugby League in the RN, with the aim of having the game included in the official list of recognised sports, and thus receiving the same financial benefits available to Rugby Union in the Service.

To this end, BARLA are compiling a register of Forces personnel interested in having a go at Amateur Rugby League. Write to the Rugby League National Development Officer, Mr Tom O'Donovan, West Yorkshire House, 4 New North Parade, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire HD1 5JP. Rugby Union players are advised that under the "free gangway" agreement between the two codes they cannot be victimised by the Union authorities for playing the much quicker and tougher game of Rugby League.

POMA David Rawson, RNH Haslar.

CRISPEN Read, South West Divisional scrum half pretender before suffering a leg injury at the beginning of last season, is now fully fit and back playing rugby for Plymouth Albion. He has also been selected for the Royal Navy squad in their build-up in preparation for the Army/Navy game at Twickenham on March 21, writes Capt. Bob Fletcher RM. LPT Dale Smallman (HMS Sultan); PORT Crvil Service, Chiswick, 1430; Tue 3 Mar v Now serving as a sub-lieutenSteve Jones (BRNC).

Plymouth Albion, Beacon Park, 1915; Wed 4 ant in HMS Drake, Read is Fixtures: Wed 29 Jan v Cambndge UniMar v Cornwall, Rectory, 1900; Tue 10 Mar v hoping to secure team selection versity. Cambridge. 1430; Wed 5 Feb v Ox Public School Wanderers. Rectory. 1900, ford University, Burnaby Road, 1430 Tue 11 Sat 21 Mar v Army, Twickenham, 1500; Sal above Mne Paul Livingstone Feb v Bristol, Bnstol, 1900; Wed 19 Feb v 28 Mar v RAF, Twickenham, 1500 who has served the Royal Navy and Combined Services well over the past five seasons.

The Royal Navy squad reflects the influence of youth development with nine ex-Colt and U21 players making the grade at senior level, a notable absentee being England U21 player Lieut. Mike Tanner who is at present undergoing Royal Marines Young Officer train-

Marines give cause to rue invitation

inp

The captain for the side has been nominated as Lieut. Ian Dixon serving with HQ TRF RM at Poole. He is an ex-Scottish Students/Scotland U21 player, who this season is vicecaptain of promotion-contenders London Scottish.

The squad comprises: PO Kevin Beth waite (DNR Carlisle); LPT Phil Hague (HMS Lancaster); Lt -Cdr. Chris Alcock {HMS Ark Royal): Mne Glen O'Laughlin (RM Poole); LSeaman(M) Les Oman (HMS Illustrious); SLt Richard Perkins (RNEC/Warwick University); SLt Crispen Read (HMS Drake); Captain Bill Dunham (CTCflM); POPT Les Clay (HMS Cornwall); LSeaman(R) Nk* Barttett (HMS London); Cpl Steve Trench (CTCRM); MEM Bob Milne (HMS Heron); LPT Ian Russell, Lt. Ian Dixon (HO TRF RM); LCpl Bobby Armstrong (Cdo Log Regt RM): Surg Lt. Bruce Powell (RNH Stonehouse); Sub-Lt Andy Kellett (RNEC); Lt Simon Phillips (DNR Manchester); LCpl Paul Living stone (RM Plymouth). PO Ewan Cowie (HMS Seahawk); AB Ossie Melbourne, Mid Chris Cowan (BRNC Dundee University); AEM Scoobie Letherland (HMS Osprey);

BASKETBALL

THE Arm

y Apprentice Training College, Harrogate, was where the Royal Marines rugby team completed their clean sweep against the sides in Army Merit Table One. A second dropped goal by The other fixtures saw wins outhalf Cpl Dave McDonald against REME, Royal Artillery, from 45 Commando RM Royal Engineers and the InfanArbroath clinched victory in a try with aggregate points of 150 hard-fought encounter, during for to 32 against. which the Royal Signals tried to After the Royal Signals thwart the Marines' efforts in match the Merit Table Trophy achieving their aim. The final was presented by General score of 13 to 6 included an Archie Birtwhistle to Cpl Ivor opportunist try by wing forBevan, the Royal Navy and ward Mne Nick Holden (40 Combined Service prop forCommando) who touched ward who had been appointed down after following up a miscaptain for the day on his retirkicked penalty attempt. ement from representative The Royal Marines had been rugby. invited by the Army Rugby Corps Committee to particiFull result*: Royal Marines 26, Royal Engineers 16; Royal (Marines 45, Royal pate in the Merit Table and Artfiety 3; Royal Marines 52, Infantry 0; agreed with permission from Royal Marine* 14, REME 7; Royal Marthe Royal Navy Rugby Union. ines 13, Royal Signal* 6.

AN EXCELLENT team performance in the 9mile Southern County Cross Country Championships in London saw the Royal Navy Athletic Club finish 10th of 157, despite being two key runners down.

RNAC retained the Hampshire Cup for the second year — as the first team from the area with 12 runners to finish — and won the E. Tomlinson Memorial Trophy for finishing first among those teams which hadn't finished in the top three in the Southern Counties in the previous 10 years.

There was a huge field of over 1,200 runners. Mne. Garry Gerrard, who led the team home, started the race cautiously in deference to a forthcoming trip to the operating theatre, but had no problems and finished a marvellous seventh.

He now hopes to be selected to compete in the World Cross Country Trials this month. CPO Graeme Riley found the 200m uphill start a bit taxing on the legs but soon recovered to find great form. He finished 49th.

Other results: 98. Sub-Lieut. Steve Gough; 130, CPO Richi HeseWen; 148, Cpl. Al Spurden; 173, Surgeon Lieut.-Cdr. Simon Sheard; 186. CPO Bill Davidson; 199. Lieut.-Cdr. Bob Chapman; 226, POSA Mick Cave; 231, Cdr. Al Rich; 244, POMEM Mick Derrane and 367, POSA Steve Cox. Reserves PO Andy Peacock and Mr. Les Harper both had excellent runs.

RNAC Juniors fielded six in the junior event They found the 6-mile course tough and the opposition a bit strong. They finished 12th, a creditable performance considering this was their first major competition.

Results: 96, MEA Halsey (Sultan); 111, MEM Gray (Sultan); 121, WEM Houchin (Collingwood); 122. WE A Van Geen (Collingwood): 127, MEA Chambers (Sultan) and 130, MEA Combe (Sultan).

RNAC's coming track and field fixtures will take place on the following dates; May 9, May 23, June 2-0, July 11, August 1 and August 15. Venues have yet to be finalised, but it seems likely that the first fixture will be held in Jersey. Any athletes interested in competing for RNAC this summer should contact CCMEA G. Riley at NTG HMS Sultan ext. 2609.

Britannia duffs opposition-

n

With a total of 78 points, HMS Dryad streamed away from rivals to win the Royal Navy Women's Inter-Establishment Competition. HMS Collingwood and HMS Nelson drew for second place on 60.

In the squash and table tennis Dryad were unstoppable; playing seven and winning seven in the former and playing four and winning four in the latter. They also won the hockey 6s, beating HMS Heron B 1-0 in the final.

HMS Collingwood won the netball, HMS Seahawk won the badminton and HMS Heron won the indoor hockey.

D

Pictured being congratulated by the Second Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Michael Livesay (centre) are the triumphant A squad — Lieut. Cormac Hamilton RM (CTCRM), skipper Capt. K e i t h M i l l s R M (CTCRM), M i d . Rob Moir (BRNC) and Cpl. Dave O'Connor (CTCRM).

BRACE OF TROPHIES FOR RNAC

n

HMS Sultan won the InterUnit Team Fencing Knockout, beating teams from throughout the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. The squad comprised Lieut.-Cdr. Nigel Huxtable, Lieut. Tim Keneally and Lieut.-Cdr. David Foster.

ITS APPEAL A HIGH standard characterised the play at the RN Basketball Championships held at HMS Temeraire. Portsmouth clinched the title, beating Plymouth 71-57 in the final. This reversed last year's result. coaching or officiating in this The preceding games finsport is requested to contact the ished as follows: Portsmouth Secretary, Lieut.-Cdr. Steve 63, Royal Marines 42; Naval Fuller at HMS Temeraire (ext.

Air 81, Scotland 51; RM 47, 23741).

Plymouth 77; Portsmouth 84, NA 57; Plymouth 95, Scotland • First RN Under 21s Basket37; RM 62, Scotland 25; Plyball Competition was held at mouth 86, NA 42; Scotland 46, HMS Collingwood and contestPortsmouth 85; NA 57, RM 72. ed by a home side and teams Interest in the sport now from HM ships Sultan and seems to be stronger than ever Dryad. Main aim was to gauge and with the WRNS trying to available talent for April's organise a team it is hoped lo Inter-Services. The final match enter the Inter-Service Chamwas between HMS Collingpionships fielding senior, under wood and HMS Sultan. Sultan 21 and womens teams. won at the very end after an Anyone interested in playing. excellent display by all players.

BRNC's Open Coxed IV caught on their way to winning the Plum Pudding Blade

FOR the second year running the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Plum Pudding Regatta has been held at Britannia Royal Naval College on the River Dart.

There was a high turnout of boats from Plymouth, Portsmouth and Naval Air Commands. Four divisions competed over the 2.5 mile course, with trophies and plum puddings being awarded to the winner and runner-up in each division.

The Plum Pudding Blade was awarded to BRNC, who recorded the fastest time of the day in their Men's Open Coxed IV. While one of the most impressive performances of the regatta came from the HMS Daedalus Coxless Pair of Lieut. A. Cameron and LAEM B. Kemp.

Results were as follows: Division I (Men's Open Coxed IV)-1 BRNC (12.18); 2, RN Squad (12.24); 3. RNEC (14.07) Division li (Men's Novice Coxed IVs): 1, RNEC A (14.22); 2, RNEC B (14.40); 3, HMS Daedalus (15.35); 4, HMS Sultan (18.06). Division III (Ladies Novice Coxed IVs): 1. HMS Heron (1615)- 2 BRNC (17.46); 3, RNEC (18.45). Division IV (Men's Coxless' Pairs): 1, HMS Daedalus (13.10); 2. HMS Heron (16.25).

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NAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

35

Outstanding team performance in Washington SUB-Lieut Steve (Ginge) Gough, running his first serious marathon, led home the victorious Royal Navy team when they beat the US Marine Corps in the Washington Marathon for the second year in a row.

Captained by Cdr. Al Rich, the team comprised experienced road runners, although three of the six were running in Washington for the first time.

By mid-point it was clear the British team were looking strong. They were helping each other to pull back the leading American runner and get away from the rest bar one of the USMC team.

By 20 miles the writing was on the wall and Gough, looking more comfortable as the race wore on, was closing on the leaders. At the finishing line, which he reached in 2 hours 32 minutes in 14th place overall, he looked as though he'd just finished a pleasant training run.

He was followed home in

Smale and Wiseman unbeaten PORTSMOUTH Command won the Inter-Command Badminton Championships at HMS Sultan, which saw some highly competitive and spirited play despite all five Commands being without some of their top players.

Hendon HMS Collingwood's annual sports fixture against the Metropolitan Police College, Hendon — the Hendon Games — took place this year at the naval establishment.

Personnel under the age of 20 years 6 months were chosen to compete at rugby, football, hockey, swimming, cross-country and volleyball and Collingwood triumphed in every event!

Rear Admiral Paul Hoddinott, British Naval Attache, again handed over the Victory Trophy to the Royal Navy team, cheered enthusiastically by the defeated but sporting US Marines.

This outstanding team performance by the RN was a tribute to their preparation and dedication. Four of them claimed personal best performances for the race.

Pictured left Fresh as a daisy, Sub-Lieut Steve Gough at the 17-mile point in the USMC Marathon leads a group of runners, including team captain, Cdr. Al Rich, POWTR Andy Peacock and POSA Mick Cave (in the cap at the back).

POSING proudly (left) are the men of Birmingham II, who won through to the semi-finals of the Dubai International Rugby Sevens.

HMS Birmingham's visit to Abu Dhabi coincided with the event, third largest sevens tournament in the world. Thanks to sponsorship from DNPTS, CoF Fund, the Sports Lottery and Spinneys, together with contributions from players, the destroyer was able to enter two teams.

The competition was split int9 three leagues — International, Gulf and Social, in the last of which Birmingham's two teams competed with Gulf State second teams and the German side Aachen, the eventual winner.

Both Birmingham squads reached the quarter finals — where they were drawn against each other! A hard-fought game ended in a 4^4 draw. The "sudden death" extra time — first

Challenge

Result: Portsmouth 42, Air 35, RM 23, Scotland 23 and Devonport 7.

Sporting

With 13,000 runners, the Washington Marathon is the fifth biggest in the States.

USMC are determined to win back the Victory Trophy and competition next year promises to be tougher than ever.

The Royal Navy cannot be complacent; all potential participants should contact Al Rich on Northwood ext 5444 to try for a place on the team.

SHIPMATES ARE DRAWN AGAINST EACH OTHER

Fleet Air Arm were just beaten into second place, while the Royal Marines and Scotland tied for third.

Pompey's success was mainly due to the veteran doubles pairing of PORT Pete Smale and CPO Richard Wiseman, who won all 12 of their games.

Other notable performers from the Command were PO Ian Can- and Sub-Lieut. Bill Daw. son in the doubles and CPO Archie Freebairn, who won all his singles matches.

FAA's challenge was led by Lieut.-Cdr. Geoff Rowlands/ CPO Ted Hill and Cdr. Rhod Palmer, the reserve, who between them won 11 of the 12 doubles. New pairing NA Paul Martell and Lieut. Steve Mansfield contributed eight wins to the Air cause, as well as winning a special award as the most successful pair without Navy team players.

The special award for the best non-Navy team singles player went to Mne. Richard O'Connor. He and Sgt. Colin Gillingham each won six singles matches. Scotland's best came from doubles players PO Jimmy Duke and CPO Chris Beaman.

Only woman playing in the tournament was Mid Louise Eastwood, who teamed up with Lieut. David Hill to win six of Devonport's seven victories; a very creditable performance against strong mens pairs.

rapid succession by Cpl Chris Cook (2:33), Rich (2:34), POWTR Andy Peacock (2:34), LA(AH) Jim Young (2:37) and POSA Mick Cave (2:45). The only threat came from Sgt Manny Estrada, who finished among the RN runners in 2:34.

team to score wins — was equally aggressive.

Matters were settled in favour of Mr urn I I when LPT Tiny Nash scored in an exciting 22 yard dash with a three man overlap. The team next met the Dubai Dragons, playing on home ground. The Dragons scored first, but the sailors equalised before half-time.

A second try by the Dragons shortly before the final whistle effectively knocked Birmingham out of the competition, with a final score of 8-4.

Back row (from left) LS Mick Robinson, LPT Tiny Nash, Lieut Paul D'Arcy, Sub-Lieut.

Ned Kelly and POMEA Tommy Cooper. Front row: AB Ticker Hart, LWEM Steve Maden, POMEA Bill Page and Sub-Lieut.

Fergus Patterson.

Soccer managers think again as Navy's winning run ends ON A chilly evening, when Gloucester County FA were the visitors to Burnaby Road in the South West Counties Competition, the Royal Navy lost their 100% record, writes Lieut.-Cdr. Jim Dunks.

Adapting better to the conditions, the visitors ran out 5-2 winners after an entertaining match in which they were generally in control.

Slack defensive play allowed Gloucester a 3-1 lead at halftime. The Navy's goal had come from POPT Vince Hall (Raleigh) from the penalty spot after a header by Daedalus's LPT Steve Riley was handled on the line.

Within ten minutes of the restart Sgt. Tiv Lowe (CTCRM) scored with a fine shot from the edge of the area, but Gloucester scored twice more for a convincing win.

A week later the RN team played host to a Portsmouth FC XI, containing inter-

n a t i o n a l Mark Kelly and several players with first team experience. Not overawed, the Navy twice went close to taking the lead, before conceding a goal.

On the stroke of half-time they got on level terms. When a corner was only partially cleared, POWEM(R) Steve Johnson (Collingwood) fastened on to the ball and crossed into the six yard box. Alan Gough in goal could only knock the ball against Riley, from whom it rebounded into the net.

WOPT Tommy Johnson introduced five new players in the second half and they took time finding their rhythm.

LREG Kevin O'Donnell (Neptune) was prevented from giving the Navy a lead by a fine save. And he will rue his poor use of a chance five minutes later when he shot wide with the goal at his mercy.

With time running out, Gale scored the winner for Portsmouth. This defeat and that by Gloucester, will give the management food for thought as they prepare for games against Sussex in the SWCC and then

the Prison Service.

The match against Pompey was preceded by a very entertaining game between PortsTHIS year sees the 21st anniversary of the founding of the Royal Navy Football Association Referees' Society.

To mark the occasion a dinner is to be held in the Royal Sailors Home Club in Portsmouth on the evening of July 3.

If you have ever been a member of the RNFA Referees' Society, why not come and renew old friendships and help celebrate this special event — you will certainly be most welcome.

For further information please contact Lieut.

Frank Wood at RNAS Yeovilton. Tel. 0935 455556.

mouth and RN Veterans in which ten goals were shared.

There was much fine play to admire and none better than

David Lancaster's opening goal for the Navy Veterans which followed a four-man move down the right.

The matches had been arranged as a contribution towards the fund-raising for the family of the late LPT Tony Partridge and £190 was collected on the evening through programme sales and a raffle.

RNFA would like to thank all concerned.

BOTH matches played by Combined Services on the Saudi Arabian leg of their Middle Eastern tour resulted in victories for the visitors, who are being skippered by Sgt. Tiv Lowe, Royal Marines.

Tiv scored the only goal in the first match, when CS met probably their weakest opposition, Royal Saudi Air Force Technical Studies Institute.

Second match saw CS beat a Royal Saudi Air Force Select XI 2-0. Johnson played a part in the build up to the first goal, headed in by Sgt. Craig Gill RAF and later in the match hit the crossbar.

A corner flighted in by Lowe

was headed home by Cpl. Alan Pluckrose RAF for the second.

HAVING previously trounced a team from HMS Onslaught, Blyth Police were full of confidence for their match against HMS Osiris and within five minutes of the start only a timely goal-line clearance by LMEM Leo Sayer prevented them going ahead.

But the submariners settled and began to turn the game, although the match to-cd and fro-ed, with both sides going close. The break came for Osiris on the stroke of half-time, when the ball was cleared from defence to a charging MEM Lou Caroll, who rifled a shot through a packed penalty area from 25 yards.

With more possession in the second half, the police remained unable to break through. LSA Phil Langley, substituted in goal, pulled off a string of miraculous saves.

Osiris' second goal came tafter a quickly taken free kick.

The ball broke to CPO George Campbell, who, with time to look up, curled in a delightful right-footed shot.

Options36

HNAVY NEWS, FEBRUARY 1992

On Active Shock for Inverness duty in the Falklands UNDERGOING a shocking experience in the Firth of Forth is the new Sandown class minehunter HMS Inverness.

Over a two week period charges of high explosive were detonated close to the ship to assess her survivability after which she underwent a full non-destructive examination of her structure and equipment. At the end of the trials the Inverness proved herself to be totally shock proof.

LEADER of the Fourth Frigate Squadron, HMS Active sailed in January for South Atlantic service and will be on station as the tenth anniversary of the Falklands campaign begins.

The Active was part of the Corporate task force and has a number of the ship's company of that time on board for her third return to the area.

Later she will act as West Indies guardship.

This year promises to be another busy one for all six ships of the Fourth.

HMS Avenger has been West Indies guardship since before Christmas, also providing the naval element to the UK's military commitment to Belize.

She has played an integral part in the fight against narcot-

Picture: Defence Research Agency (Maritime Division).

ics, working closely with US drug enforcement agencies and local island security services.

After several goodwill visits to various Caribbean islands HMS Avenger returns to the UK in April.

Meanwhile, HMS Arrow sailed for Mediterranean area duty in January, and sister ships HMS Alacrity and Ambuscade will be taking part in a large NATO exercise.

Following her return from West Indies deployment at the end of last year, HMS Amazon will operate in UK waters.

Bari ceremony AT a ceremony at the Bari Commonwealth War Graves cemetery, Lieut.-Cdr. K. M. Napier laid a wreath on behalf of all UK military forces in Italy.

Many of the local British and Italian communities attended, together with representatives of several ex-Service organisations.

The price of victory WHEN a conquering Roman general returned home In triumph, a half-naked slave stood behind him at the grand march-past to remind him quietly "Homlnem te memento" — remember you are only

a man.

So what do the British do? According to Admiral Sir John (Sandy) Woodward, the Falklands Battle Group Commander, we have cMI servants Instead — "better dressed, but just as necessary".

Concluding his gripping and often moving memoirs, just published, Admiral Woodward recalls how one of his first official letters on arriving home after the successful Falklands campaign pointed out that the regular review of his entertainment expenditure showed that In the last quarter — "during which time / had been a bit busy" — he had spent a total of £5.85.

So they had "accordingly revised your entertainment allowance down by £1.78 per day. Furthermore, we have backdated

this revision to that of your promotion In July 1981 last year. As a consequence you have been overpaid £649.70. We should be glad to receive payment of this, In full, at your earliest convenience."

Briefly the admiral thought It was a joke. But quickly realising tt wasn't, he wrote back asking for time to pay, suggesting £100 a month — and, "considerately, they agreed".

He says, "I suppose I should have thrown a lavish victory party In Hermes, men ft would not have happened. Serves me right for not entering Into the spirit of things."

Saying that at least the letter brought him down to earth with a considerable thump, he adds, "This country really does have Ha own wonderful way of ensuring that no-one gets too big for his boots. Perhaps that has preserved us from a home-grown Hitler, or a Mussolini, or a Stalin, or even a Galtieri or a Saddam Hussein."

• Admiral Woodward's book, "One Hundred Days" (published by HarperCollins ), which centres on the drama of the South Atlantic conflict, tactics and personal feelings, will be reviewed In our next edition.

CORNWALL DATE FOR PRINCESS

Doctors on top TWO Royal Navy surgeons are taking part in next month's assault on Mount Everest via the West Ridge — often said to be the most dangerous route.

Surg. Lieut.-Cdr. Andy Hughes and Surg. Lieut. Pete Davis, both from RNH Stonehouse, will be joined by Lieut.

Steve Bell, RMR, and Staff Sgt. Chris Barnes, currently serving with the Royal Marines in Germany, on the 18-man expedition led by Col. Mike Kelford of the 7th Gurkha Rifles.

New submarine tugs ordered A £10 million order has been placed for two new submarine berthing tugs which will operate at the Clyde submarine base.

Delivery of the 530-tonne tugs is due in Spring 1993.

Their five-man crew will be drawn from the RMAS.

TWTJTTrrTFTr

9"770028"167016"

isplays artistic lice ub.-Lieut. Sandra Wai to their new qold badges of rank.

WRNS officers and ratings have previously worn blue braid and badges on their uniform, but now they are falling into line with their male counterparts by wearing gold and red.

The old blue insignia should largely disappear by the beginning of April.

"SAYING it with flowers" are Laura and Pamela Revill, daughters of CCWEA Steve Revill, as they presented Princess Diana with a bouquet during a private visit to HMS Cornwall.

Princess Diana launched the Devonport-based Type 22 frigate in 1985 and has regularly visited the ship since.

She was escorted on board by Flag Officer Plymouth Vice-Admiral Sir Alan Grose and after meeting the Cornwall's commanding officer, Capt. Paul Branscombe, and the ship's company Princess Diana presented long service and good conduct medals.

Cuts in naval support MEASURES announced last summer to restructure naval support have now been largely confirmed, affecting about 2,500 civilian posts, and with inevitable redundancies.

The Government spoke of the need to balance the support infrastructure with front-line strength, and said the savings generated were essential for

maintaining the Navy's frontline strength as required for Britain's defence for the '90s.

The programme involves Ro-

syth dockyard, HMS Daedalus, HMS Nelson (Gunwharf) and a number of stores depots, and is timed for various dates between this year and 1996.

Published by Navy News, HMS Nelson, Portsmouth, and printed by Portsmouth Publishing and Printing Ltd., The News Centre, Hilsea, Portsmouth PO2 9SX.

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